Good Article wrote on Mar 11, 2008 11:28 PM:Ahhhh - the facts are coming out

sheila wrote on Mar 11, 2008 11:56 PM:thank you for having the patience to wait for the truth instead of speculating. Thank you also for working so hard to obtain real witnesses instead of familial contacts. You're doing a thankless and admirable job. Hang in there. We can wait for the facts.

John from Temecula wrote on Mar 12, 2008 12:06 AM:Someone who is hit in the head with a metal chair has a right to defend himself...Period!!! If the person defending himself happens to have a gun... well that's a shame for the chair swinger.

The Wizard of Oz wrote on Mar 12, 2008 4:08 AM:Oh boy, that family is something else, "lies"!!!! Give it up, he brought it on to himself and it is going to be a justified shooting. You are living in a farse of a life to say they are ALL lying....come on.

Robin wrote on Mar 12, 2008 5:29 AM:If you go to the Riverside County Court website, you can look up the court records of most of the names mentioned in these articles. Vilan's brothers and friends have all had contact with the police. DUI's, drug charges, etc. I can understand a mother's denial, but the reality is Mr. Vilan had an anger problem that was exacerbated by alcohol. If he was truly trying to turn his life around, he wouldn't have been driniking AT ALL - especially while he was on parole. That's what got him into trouble and sent to prison in the first place. Drinking and fighting. Independent witnesses have come forward and corroborated the officer's story. HE was attacked....

cops aren't bad wrote on Mar 12, 2008 5:45 AM:I love how some of the tv media spins this story. Obviously Vilan and his friends were not just "assassinated". The media is so filled with hate for law enforcement and looking for a story.
RSO and Costa Mesa don't obviously want to provide further info. until they have all their facts.

m.t. wrote on Mar 12, 2008 6:34 AM:old town temecula had some bad looking people in it last night for the get together. more bars more touble.

rose wrote on Mar 12, 2008 7:04 AM:I hope the city will think twice before they let more bars in old town. old town is starting to look like a party beach town

Robert24 wrote on Mar 12, 2008 7:17 AM:I suggest that we ban all metal chairs. I know, some of you will say "When metal chairs are banned, only criminals will have metal chairs", but they can be used for no good. There is no place in the Constitution that says we have the right to bear metal chairs, so this should not be an issue. Ban all metal chairs now!

finally wrote on Mar 12, 2008 7:35 AM:Finally the truth is coming out. How many witnesses are there and the mother is still in denial that he didn't do it? Give me a break, yes its a sad tragedy but the cop was defending himself from what 6 guys beating him up.

Reality wrote on Mar 12, 2008 7:43 AM:It is very sad that anybody was hurt and/or Killed but this seems to be our society today. Just drive down the roads and accidently cut someone off and if they had a chance they would kill you in a fit of rage over an accident. My prayers go out to both families because they will have to live with the memories long after we are on to another subject. The biggest thing that we should all take from this is "RELAX and it is ok to turn the other cheek" It may be to late for you to change your ways but help your children to learn this lesson.

between wrote on Mar 12, 2008 7:52 AM:to Robert24
Robert, we must "register" chairs first, allow only one chair purchase per month(yes, I know, six months for a dining set), pass a required seating test if you want to carry a chair in public areas, limit the types of chairs(no folding, concealable, or really BIG SCARY chairs). Eventually we will effectively have banned chairs for law abiding squatters. We will then be able to assume that anyone with a chair must be a criminal up to no good.

arny's army wrote on Mar 12, 2008 7:58 AM:you don't have to be a cop hater to beleive that the truth will prevale. The truth in some matters hinders whats best for the good of the whole. Example:Iraq War

more m.t. wrote on Mar 12, 2008 8:02 AM:You think there were bad looking people last night? Do you ever visit during the week? Weekend? All those wannabe bikers show up at the bars down there. Oh wait, they aren't bad looking, just funny looking! Such a trashy city Temecula has become.

I knew wrote on Mar 12, 2008 8:22 AM:I knew that the truth would come out. I knew that the officer didn't do anything wrong. The "gf"'s story seemed a little too fishy. She seemed too fake on the news. That aside, why would you allow your son to be there while your out drinking? Velan and his buddies were all drunk and thats what started the whole thing. The officer appologized for what he did but Velan was drunk and didnt accept it.

I know what went on with this case and I said all along that Velan was guilty. Now the facts prove it. No cop who has been on the force for 10+ years is just going to go out and shoot people. That much experience and you know that you need to ID yourself and give time for them to stop, but i guess that they were just too drunk and thats why they got shot.

Mark wrote on Mar 12, 2008 8:24 AM:Interesting how the high and mighty come out of the wood work when instances such as this occur. And by the way Arny, Iraq seems to one of the dumbest things our government has done since Vietnam.

Concerned-1 wrote on Mar 12, 2008 8:27 AM:If this were like TV, the CSI would get finger prints off the chair, and match the blood found on the chair to the officer. Chair swinger would then become the prime suspect. As a side note, I would never own a metal chair!

southie wrote on Mar 12, 2008 8:33 AM:Just remember this is one Wolf of many roaming bubble city. If not for the sheep dog, there would be many more incidents of this kind happening to the sheep.

Citizen of Temec wrote on Mar 12, 2008 8:39 AM:Whether a blood test was done on the shooter - "TPD Chief Jerry Williams said he could not confirm if that was done, but did say it is common practice for law enforcement to do that in officer-involved shooting investigations." C'mon, Chief! One of your citizens was killed, quit the spin. YOU should have ordered a blood test be done when he was in the hospital. You should have treated him like a suspect until all facts were in. YOU should have had him interrogated immediately, not politely wait for him to show up at the station on Monday afternoon, after he lined up his lawyers. Don't let his badge effect your investigation, you owe us that.

sad wrote on Mar 12, 2008 8:43 AM:The saddest part unmentioned is that Shauns 7 year old son witnessed the whole thing. No matter who is at fault we should keep this little boy in our prayers.

rench wrote on Mar 12, 2008 8:56 AM:Well, now that the facts are coming out, from INDEPENDENT WITNESSES, I hope the people defending this "villian" are proud of the stance that they took. Now maybe we can start focusing on the real victims, the off-duty officer and HIS family and friens.

recall wrote on Mar 12, 2008 8:57 AM:there is no cover up in this case, and we do have a VERY GOOD POLICE FORCE IN TEMECULA, ONE OF THE BEST IN CALIFORNIA. but.. I wish the city of temecula(there staff) was as good.

Temecula... wrote on Mar 12, 2008 9:11 AM:Im pretty sure the girl or women that was touched accidentally had a lot to do with this, She probably made it alot worse then it was, an provoked it!!Just a thought!!!!

Truth Meter wrote on Mar 12, 2008 9:14 AM:I try not to judge a book by its cover, but the vigil picture on the front page warrants comment. Let's see, everybody front row is either a bleach-blond or a buzz-cut, inked up, muscle head.
Looks like the real story is starting to come out. Punchie (Mr. Vilan, or more accurately Villain) and his muscle bound dumb rummies were looking for a fight and found one. Too bad it was with the Man who was packing.
I'm glad Mrs. Crowley (I don't wonder about the different last name) retained council. The estate of Mr. Villain will need an attorney when the off-duty officer sues them for ADW and other crimes. Speaking of ADW, he did 6 years in lock-down for a previous conviction. What ever ball team he was coaching, get my kids the heck out. I don't want them to be around some inked-up ex-con with a hair trigger temper.
Watch the news for more revealing info as this all unfolds...

Yikes wrote on Mar 12, 2008 9:28 AM:The whole darn incident is sad. I don't even take my family to an old town events anymore. The rod run is chaos and the wine/baloon festival is also starting to appear that way too on Sat/Sun. TPD needs to pay for more officers at the rod run. Admission fee to the rod run to help pay for police. More police visibility/presents. I feel bad for all involved, but after reading about what independant witnesses saw, the victims history, prior arrests etc, etc, the off duty officer had no other choice but to shoot. Was he suppose to just let these three guys beat him to death.

You People Make Me Sick wrote on Mar 12, 2008 9:36 AM:I am sick and tired of all the people trashing this DEAD MAN. You weren't there (neither was I, for the record). I think all of you coming out and parading this man around like he is "What is Wrong with Temecula" is utterly disgusting. You are all what is wrong with our world today, taking such delight in making an example out of him.

Looks like a duck wrote on Mar 12, 2008 9:40 AM:SOOOOOO glad to read this story today... I am SO sick of 'tough guys' defending their whatever, all the time and this piece of work had to be a cool tough guy in front of his 7yr old son-disgrace.
Can not wait for more and more facts about this group of hooligans to come out. Way to go tough guys, fighting is cool!!

Questions wrote on Mar 12, 2008 9:41 AM:2 questions:

1. Should a off-duty police officer be allowed to carry a firearm and drink alcohol? Alcohol impairs everyone's judgement, even off-duty officers.

2. I have to ask, where was the officers family during the fight if he was having dinner with them?

esteban wrote on Mar 12, 2008 9:44 AM:Rench...now that real facts are coming out, we can expect the throng of apologies from Vilan supporters.

EHS Mom wrote on Mar 12, 2008 9:46 AM:to More m.t.
Excuse me, sir or ma'am, but I happen to be one of those so called "trashy" bikers who goes to Old Town on the weekends with my husband, a Riverside Sheriff deputy. Might I remind you that most bikers are God fearing, tax paying citizens who enjoy a day off every now and then. Perhaps you could be a bit less judgemental.

look at both sides, cops aren't always right wrote on Mar 12, 2008 9:50 AM:Obviously all of you writing did not know Shaun. People make mistakes and people change. And he had definately changed. The cop shot his gun with a crowd of people around while he was in a "daze" what if the drunk cop would have shot Shaun's 7 YEAR OLD son who saw the entire thing??? There would be completely different comments being said write now. The cop should not have been drinking if he had his gun, of course they are going to make him seem like the good guy no matter what, how bad would that look for the PD... they can't let the truth come out. And if any of you have any leagl knowledge the past is irrelevant!!

Nick wrote on Mar 12, 2008 9:52 AM:If we ban chairs, can we still have the lawn chair Olympics?

sharring wrote on Mar 12, 2008 10:02 AM:I can not believe what some of you are saying you dont know Shaun at all and i hope none of you ever get in trouble because aparently that is something you will never be able to live down or over come. The fact is that his little boy watched his Daddy die!!!!!!!!!!!! That is by far the sadest thing here.... I feel that if the cop had not been drinking eather than he might have used his brain as a cop and shot Shaun in the leg arm someware else to stop him now wouldnt that have been a better choice istead of shooting him in the chest and wasnt it from behind wow that is sad..... i just think everyone should think about the situation both partys were in the wrong for the alterction but death was never needed and if the cop was being beaten so bad but was with friends you think he was all alone give me a break and if it was so bad why werent the cops called earlier. IF so many people were around why did no one help this so innocent cop if it was just him lies so why dont you think about what happened and if it sounds right......... he is a cop he is suppost to protect us and show integraty and that was not what happened sat night period..... he had no right to shot to kill!!!! and how efer thinks the poor officer and his family he is fine remember he lived ans was treated for minor injuries. No mattter what the outcome is the true vi ctums are Shauns little boy who now has no daddy, his family who lost a son a brother and mors and friends who now have lost a friend all because of something that could have been avoided. Just no i am not saying the cop should not have defended him self i just think he could have made better judgement decissions but that is waht happens when you are drunk you get Cocky and that is what the cop did plain and simple.

A Mother's Pain wrote on Mar 12, 2008 10:05 AM:The love of a mother can never be explained. Karen Crowley you continue to defend your son(because no one else will). Ignore all the trash you will read about him. We as mothers raise our children and teach them right from wrong and hopefully they will always do what is right, but sometimes they don't. Do we take our love away? NO!!! Karen Crowley is experiencing the most horrible thing a mother can experience. I would as a mother myself ask you all to stop being so cruel. I think the intoxicated police officer had alot to do with what happened that night. Should we not expect more from him than this. Why don't we dredge up his past wrong doings? Oh that's right they are not releasing his name let alone his kill record. Stop the Monday Morning quarterbacking unless you were there you have no right to make assumptions and jump to conclusions.

J.M. wrote on Mar 12, 2008 10:13 AM:Ahhh Haaa.... there are reports both parties were drinking..... and the little blurb at the end about the cop carrying his gun legally... are you catching this... truth will come out...

John from Temecula wrote on Mar 12, 2008 10:14 AM:10news... is reporting the Vilan did 6 years (remember, he was probably sentenced to 12 and only did half) for smashing beer bottles over the face of two different people at two different times. Hmm, if it walks like a duck, it must be a .....

Pain wrote on Mar 12, 2008 10:17 AM:It's hard not to jump to conclusion when you have the facts.........you don't have to be a trained investigator to figure this one out.
It over, a done deal, justice has been served!

J.M. wrote on Mar 12, 2008 10:18 AM:For all you "google" ers out there... google "drunk cop" and take a look at the finest most trained, arms experts that can carry guns while drinking.... it will make you wonder who the bad guys are.

To A Mother's Pain wrote on Mar 12, 2008 10:32 AM:Are you serious?? In one breath you say the officer was "intoxicated" (despite all witnesses to the contrary), and in the next you tell people to quit jumping to conclusions, that unless we were there we have no right.

Wow.

To Truth Meter wrote on Mar 12, 2008 10:33 AM:"I'm glad Mrs. Crowley (I don't wonder about the different last name) retained council." What is that supposed to mean? There could be any number of reasons Mrs. Crowley has a different last name than her son. Perhaps she is a widow and is now remarried. Perhaps when she married his dad she retained her maiden name, maybe they are divorced. I guess you are the moral police as well as the truth meter. The truth is we don't know what happened and we will have to wait for all the facts to be released. One thing I know for sure though the officer is well protected by his network of other officers, and the District Attorney. No need to worry the shooter will be exonerated no matter what the facts prove.

sharring again wrote on Mar 12, 2008 10:35 AM:Truth meter-
so then i should judge you by the way you look.....looking a certain way does not determine what kind of a person you are. what a insinsative ... you are.His little boy watched him die. you know nothing look at how old he was when that happened ever hurd of a secound chance... my god i hope if you ever make a mistake you dont get one. you dont know him or anyone that was there so you sould shut you mouth.
oh and

temecula -it was his best friends wife that the officer touched so i bet she didnt provoke it seeing her husband was there too just so you know.

This is a sad thing that happened period stop trying to depribe him what he desirves and that is to be remembered by his family without everyone putting there two sence in about what happened especially if you werent there or dont know him

Ron wrote on Mar 12, 2008 10:48 AM:Cops 1,bad guys 0

Ron wrote on Mar 12, 2008 10:52 AM:Hey lets just get over this and move on. Cops 1, Bad guys 0.

More To A Mother's Pain wrote on Mar 12, 2008 10:54 AM:Nice going, Hypocrite. Has it been proven that the officer had been drinking? No. Are you jumping to conclusions as you're telling others not to? Yes. Incredible.

I survived Temecula wrote on Mar 12, 2008 11:04 AM:It has to be said... I grew up with Shaun Vilan and most of the people involved in this story. I certainly have no love for the man, and knew him to be kind of a jerk. But I have to take a step back and see the situation for what it is: tragic. As for you, "Temecula", the start of this whole mess (the wife of Shaun's best friend getting slapped on the [rear] by the cop) was nothing more than an innocent bystander. Shaun took matters into his own hands by going after the cop, and probably deserved to be arrested, but not killed.
Yes, Shaun had committed crimes in the past, but he had served his time, and from all reports had turned his life around and was a great father to his son. It is not fair to minimize the grief his friends and family must feel because some of them have tattoos and bleached hair. Some of you people make me sick. A man is DEAD; he was not a villain, he was a father, a son, a brother, a friend. What if he was yours?

witnesses???? wrote on Mar 12, 2008 11:06 AM:Am I the only one who wonders why the names of these 'witnesses' are not being released? When I am telling the truth I have NO PROBLEM sharing my name. Perhaps the police aren't telling the whole truth. Nine witnesses?? huh... who are they? I don't think they exist. The only witnesses who've shared their names are the ones telling the victims side. They obviously have nothing to hide and that's why we know their names.
And now Mrs. Crowley and her family have been advised not to talk about the case. So guess who's side we're gonna hear???? DUH!!

anotherview wrote on Mar 12, 2008 11:18 AM:The hard to bear made worse by the heartless words.

AZGuy wrote on Mar 12, 2008 11:25 AM:Well, that nut didn't fall far from the tree. His father was indicted for securities fraud several months ago and is sitting in jail pending trial. He'll be lucky to get off with 20 years. Shaun was next to be indicted as he was involved in the scam. This family is falling and fast. Step Mom is next. Lucy, you got some splainin' to do!!

Witnesses wrote on Mar 12, 2008 11:27 AM:Well.....look at the police records Vilan and his buddies.
The police have the names of the witnesses, the public does not!
The witnesses don't want someone to smash them in the head with a chair, beer bottle or anything else that is handy.
The exact same reason Costa Mesa PD has given for not releasing the officer's name.

coach wrote on Mar 12, 2008 11:27 AM:I just wonder if the deceased in this matter had truly turned his life around and was a good citizen now as stated by everyone on his side then why in the heck would he have his son in that atmosphere? Why would he get in a harmless altercation in the resturant as earlier stated? Why would he walk outside with his 7 year old and throw a chair at a person (from behind) and if he didn't throw it he saw who did and his 7 year old son did as well. It is amazing that this individual who has the record he has and has spent time away like he has obviousely didn't learn his lesson and was not reformed. His biggest mistake here is the fact that he and his crew (he never fights alone) picked the wrong guy this time and paid the untlimate sacrifice. Yes it is sad that all this happened in front of his son but what is really sad is the fact that his own Dad who supposedly is such a great guy now put his 7 year old in that position to witness his father's behavior and also put his son in harms way. How many times in the minutes that led up to this did he have the oppurtunity and choice to gather his son, family and freinds up and remove himself from the situation? Instead what did he choose??? Well, we know now what choice he made and it was the wrong one. So sad for the son that his Dad couldn't set the example and show his son what being a man is all about and show him and others that he was a changed person and had grown up and learned from his mistakes that he had made previousely in his life. So much more but honestly.... why?????

Witness wrote on Mar 12, 2008 11:30 AM:The witnesses are now allowing the release of their names due to safety reasons. All we need to know is: they witnessed it, we most likely sober and independent. They were not involved so we have no right to know who they are or discredit them. That is for the police and courts to do.

Concerned-1 wrote on Mar 12, 2008 11:31 AM:Here are a couple of thoughts that could have subverted this tragedy.
1. Never swat someone on the butt. It's just not right.
2. If you are on parole, avoid doing the things, and associating with the people, that got you in trouble in the first place. A key word here would be consequences.
3. Do not take your children with you when you are hanging out and drinking with friends. It's just not good for them.
Yes, I feel sorry for the family and especially the son. But, the whole scenario should have never happened. Now that it has, I'd like to see somebody (chair thrower, girl friend, other inciters) take responsibility.

to witnesses???? wrote on Mar 12, 2008 11:33 AM:I'm surprised there wasn't a lot more witnesses. That corner was packed about 1-2 hours prior to the incident due to the raffle and the awards were being handed out. If I were a witness, I would not want my name out there so all those family and friends could harass me and my family.

Jean wrote on Mar 12, 2008 11:38 AM:This is a sad situation for all the parties involved. Temecula and Riverside Homicide should turn over the investigation to an outside agency to make sure that all the correct facts are brought forward.It will all come out if alcohol was a major factor in what happened.Under no circumstances should the Costa Mesa Police officer been out drinking with family or friends and carrying a loaded gun, even if by law he is allowed to carry a loaded concealed gun.I am sure that police departments have some type of policy stating that an off duty officer can not carry their loaded off-duty gun if they plan to go out drinking with friends.There is no reason why the Costa Mesa officer shot his gun 5 times and shot the young man in the chest and another person in the leg.After he identified himself and if he felt the need to draw his gun he should have shot a warning shot and if the the officer still felt threatened, then he should have shot to stop from being attacked and not shot to kill.

WHAT? wrote on Mar 12, 2008 11:48 AM:Okay, HOW can you be a witness to something (ANYTHING FOR THAT MATTER) if...IF YOU ARE NOT THERE? If this is the case add my name to the witness list, I too was not there!

To Truth Meter wrote on Mar 12, 2008 12:12 PM:I'm not even from Temecula or California. You say you try not to judge people. All your comments are very judgemental. Do you think you are better than these people? Thou shall not judge. You will get knocked off your Holy Pedistal one day. The people in this picture looks like everyone else here in California. The fact of the matter this boys family and friends are grieving regardless of who was right or wrong. Obviously you have never lost a loved one. He was a human being no matter what his past was like. This was a very sad and tragic thing to happen. People like you is what is wrong with this world.

coach wrote on Mar 12, 2008 12:21 PM:I just wonder if the deceased in this matter had truly turned his life around and was a good citizen now as stated by everyone on his side then why in the heck would he have his son in that atmosphere? Why would he get in a harmless altercation in the resturant as earlier stated? Why would he walk outside with his 7 year old and throw a chair at a person (from behind) and if he didn't throw it he saw who did and his 7 year old son did as well. It is amazing that this individual who has the record he has and has spent time away like he has obviousely didn't learn his lesson and was not reformed. His biggest mistake here is the fact that he and his crew (he never fights alone) picked the wrong guy this time and paid the untlimate sacrifice. Yes it is sad that all this happened in front of his son but what is really sad is the fact that his own Dad who supposedly is such a great guy now put his 7 year old in that position to witness his father's behavior and also put his son in harms way. How many times in the minutes that led up to this did he have the oppurtunity and choice to gather his son, family and freinds up and remove himself from the situation? Instead what did he choose??? Well, we know now what choice he made and it was the wrong one for many reasons including the one that he finally assualted someone that fought back even thought he was outmanned and fought for his own life, So sad for the son that his Dad couldn't set the example and show his son what being a man is all about and show him and others that he was a changed person and had grown up and learned from his mistakes that he had made previousely in his life. So much more but honestly.... why?????

??? wrote on Mar 12, 2008 12:23 PM:This family(whom I do not know) has been through enough with the lose of a loved one. Why do you people feel the need to trash their lives more. Leave them alone and let them grieve. Let the courts settle what happened. I believe both parties were in the wrong. No matter what kind of trouble other femily members or friends may be in, you have to remember this boys son is just a child.

QUESTION wrote on Mar 12, 2008 12:24 PM:Why can an off duty officer carry a concealed weapon? i should be able to incase situations like this happen.
Police get far to much lenancy. if he didnt pull the gun no one would be dead. sure the off duty officer would be badly hurt but still there would be no death.
and by the way this is Temecula not costa mesa. dont act like just cause your a cop your jurisdiction is endless.
i hope this cop gets sentenced to jail and taken off the force immidiatly.

please...and off duty officer who gets to carry a gun, what a sad sad world this is becoming.

To Sharing wrote on Mar 12, 2008 12:29 PM:Please use spell check!!!You make no sense at all!!!!

esteban wrote on Mar 12, 2008 12:38 PM:Jean jean jean...how naive are you. He didn't shoot to kill...he shot to stop the threat...and guess what? The threat stopped! So everytime a murder or high profile crime happens in one jurisdiction, that agency should relinquish the investigation to an outside agency? makes no sense. You make no sense. You sound like a person who has no smarts.

Fair Cop wrote on Mar 12, 2008 12:42 PM:About the "sharring" comments:

This whole situation sucks and I could respond to many of your comments, but "sharring" seems to have my focus. I am trying to not pass judgment which is tough, but over the years I have learned things always become clearer with time.

With that being said you need to have a little understanding about the way things work. In life and police work.

1st: Cops do not shoot to injure, this is not the movies. They carry a gun to be used as lethal force when protecting their life, someone elses, or preventing serious bodily injury. Without all the facts we can only "assume" the cop felt his life was in danger.

2nd: Let's wait and see what "drinking earlier" actually is. I guarantee you they took a blood test. I also "heard" a news report that the bar tab from about 7 people contained about 7 drinks. Don't know the distribution, but that doesn't sound excessive or even close. We will see more on that later.

3rd: As to why people don't jump in and help? From person to person, who know? The average person does not get involved, other than to call 911, especially when chairs and/or multiple tough-looking guys are involved. On-lookers don't want to take a beating either. It takes a special person, a cop for example, to jump into a situation like that. Do you know anyone who would have done so? As for the cops family being present, I don't know, but I thought he went outside because he was not feeling well. Maybe he was by himself at that time. Once again, time will tell.

4th: As for "why weren't the cops there earlier." Come on!!! How long do you think this actually took. 30 minutes??? Try 30 seconds or maybe a couple minutes, tops. Unless a cop was standing nearby, nothing could have been done, by police response, before it was over. Get a clue and don't look for any opportunity to criticize in the middle of a weak argument.

5th: Speaking of weak comments. How dare you question the officer's integrity without all the facts. Talk about a horrible thing to do. If it comes out he was drunk, instigated the fight and then shot the guy, then go ahead, but save your judgements on his integrity until then.

6th: Drunk and cocky? Where did you get this information. He may have been drunk, as stated above, but wait and see! I have not heard anything, substantiated or otherwise, indicating he was cocky. What a great way to sum up your comments.

Lastly: I agree with you. The child is the biggest victim here. Such a tragedy to watch a parent die like that. It was definitely avoidable, but by who? Again time will tell. We will never know what the boy will take from this experience. If the cop turns out to "drunk and cocky" and in the wrong, so be it and hammer him for it! In that case, I hope the boy's family can educate him that cops like that are in the minority.

If it comes out that his dad did not change his ways and criminally aggravated the situation to where the cop felt it necessary to defend himself with his gun, then I hope the family will help the boy remember the finer attributes of his father and explain that the officer was only doing what he had to do to save his life.

Most of us will never know how the family will handle this situation. I only hope they have the "integrity" to do the right thing, for the boy, regardless of how this plays out. If not, they only increase the chances that the boy will end up like his father. One way or another, and not necessarily at the hands of a police officer.

Signed... Fair Cop!

Concerned-1 wrote on Mar 12, 2008 1:02 PM:The more I hear from those in support of Shawn Villan, the more I think he and his friends are to blame for what happened. It's the mentality of a generation who are never at fault, never to blame. Somewhere down the road they will learn the lessons of life. Unfortunately for them, it will be the hard way.

Couple Points wrote on Mar 12, 2008 1:04 PM:I bet it was against Shaun's parole terms to be out drinking. If he had turned his life around he would have avoided any confrontation at all costs.

Hopefully The Sheriff's Department has learned a lesson too. They are well known for not releasing information about cases. They have in this case and now the public understands better what is going on, and everyone is done talking about a "cover-up."

Vigil wrote on Mar 12, 2008 1:29 PM:I hope the candlelight Vigil helped Vilan's family and friends reach some closure. Please use it as such. Please don't dwell on the outcome of the case, no matter what happens. Please remember the good times shared with this man and teach your children that in a moment of time it can all be over. Please teach them to be as non-confrontational as possible. No one wants the families touched by this tragedy to perpetuate the same behaviors seen on that night.

J.M. wrote on Mar 12, 2008 1:36 PM:How many people get to shoot someone... have the cops find them with the smoking gun.... and then waltz in 3 days later for the "investigation".... come on... We see whats happening here.

all need to quit wrote on Mar 12, 2008 1:47 PM:WOW ALL THESE COMMENTS SHOWS WHAT KIND OF PEOPLE ARE OUT THERE. IT DOESNT MATTER WHAT HIS PAST WAS OR HIS FAMILY PAST...........DOESNT MATTER WHO IS RIGHT OR WRONG AT THIS POINT........
THE PAIN FOR THE PEOPLE THAT KNEW AND LOVED HIM IS THERE AND WILL BE FOREVER..A LITTLE BOY LOST HIS DADDY, A MOTHER LOST HER SON, A BROTHER LOST HIS BROTHER....COME ON WHATEVER COMES OUT TO BE THE "TRUTH" THE REAL PRICE TO PAY WILL EVENTUALLY COME TO ALL,(IN THE END) SHAUN,THE COP,AND ALL YOU WHO ARE WRITING SUCH EVIL THINGS ABOUT OTHERS HUMAN BEINGS. AS TEMECULA OLD TOWN IT IS A BEAUTIFUL PLACE TO GO, BIKERS,PUNKERS,CHILDREN IT DOESNT MATTER WHO IS THERE OR WHERE YOU GO SOCIETY IS WHAT IT IS. TO ALL VICTIMS INVOLVED YOU ARE IN MY PRAYERS

A scholar wrote on Mar 12, 2008 1:47 PM:No JM, we don't. Why don't you tell us, seeing you know it all.

Sad Sue wrote on Mar 12, 2008 1:58 PM:I will make a prediction that the off duty cop will never be charged. The wagons have begun to circle, maligning the victim who can't speak for himself, bringing up his past and judging his family and friends. The brotherhood extends from RivCo to the O.C. to the courts. Check past cases... officer-involved shootings almost always go the officers way. Why? because any cracks would open the floodgates of public distrust.

My deepest sympathy to the Vilan family and for us lowly citizens, sheep, or whatever you righteous folk want to label us, remember to stay out of the way of the police. They will always win, no matter what. They always do.

esteban wrote on Mar 12, 2008 2:00 PM:JM...I don't see it...what is happening here? $100 bucks says your theory is wrong. Any takers?

For the grieving only wrote on Mar 12, 2008 2:05 PM:Here way lay to rest our true friend
He met the most tragic end
It was the wrong time and place
With his son at his side with a smiling face
We celebrated and partied all day long
How could all this end so terribly wrong?
The choices we make everyday
Send us down a path and on our way
Or in a split second to end our day
Only God knows the time and the place
And when it’s our time to seek his embrace
For your family and friends left on earth
We will use this time as a new birth
To help raise your child in the right way
So he may enjoy life and everyday
We will share the love you can no longer give
And teach him to share and to forgive
Rest in peace, in our hearts you shall forever live

j.m. wrote on Mar 12, 2008 2:09 PM:Scholar... no where does it say I know it all... no where... come on, comment on how come it took over 2 days to get the UNNAMED shooter in for the INVESTIGATION... Witnesses were held in the restaurant for hours... 2+ days to question the shooter....

Citizen of Temec wrote on Mar 12, 2008 2:20 PM:to J.M. - that's what I said on my 8:39am post... the off duty cop got to rest up, regroup, talk to his department-appointed counsel and come in TWO DAYS later. He fired 5 to 8 shots. He killed a man. Until the facts were known, he should have been treated like a suspect. Even if you exchange blows on a street corner, the cops in this town would take you to Southwest detention center for a few hours - hold & release. He was treated with kid gloves ONLY because he's a COP.

GGG wrote on Mar 12, 2008 2:27 PM:Fair cop at 12:42PM seems to have a good and fair grasp of the situation. However, I would like to know what is fair about the following:

1)Why is it fair to publish the name and background of the one killed for all to read and comment on while keeping the name and background of the shooter secret? Does the shooter have a history of violence in his background?
2)Why are the police being so wishy-washy on their policy regarding off-duty carrying of a gun while drinking?
3)Why would a cop fire multiple rounds with many innocent men, women and children close by?
4)Why would the police chief say he "could not confirm" whether or not a blood/alcohol test had been given to the shooter several day after the event?
5)Why, according to "the investigation" is there now two "sides" during the earlier encounter when we had been lead to believe the cop was all by himself against several aggressors?
6)Why are the police saying the cop "is not being treated differently than anyone else would be"? No name, no background history, Maybe no alcohol test since the chief doesn't even know.

I'm not saying there is a cover up, but these things certainly suggest there could be. Your thoughts on this Fair cop?

J.M. wrote on Mar 12, 2008 2:34 PM:Found it... the Law Enforcement Officers Act of 2004 signed into law by G.W. Bush states " The privelege conferred by the law applies only when the individual "is not under the influence of alcohol or another intoxicating or hallucinatory drug or substance" .... meaning it is against Federal law for a cop to carry a concealed weapon under the influence of alcohol... lets see what happens now if he even had one drink, it is shown to impair a persons motor skills, reflexes, reasoning and judgement.

To j.m. wrote on Mar 12, 2008 2:34 PM:just Remember you are dealing with arrogance and paranoia here and overlook the childish comments to your post.

skallop wrote on Mar 12, 2008 3:18 PM:Let's remember what this incident is about - a tragedy that could've been avoided regardless of who is at fault. This isn't about Old Town, bars, events, scary looking people, bikers, or Temecula PD. Wait for the facts. I have not heard or read two stories that are the same, so I am waiting for the truth to come out. It's not up to me to judge anyway. It's interesting to see how many people have formed an opinion who weren't there or who have only read about it from inconsistent sources.

A.G. wrote on Mar 12, 2008 3:32 PM:Think before writing such bad things about someone you do not even know, and a situation that was not in front of you to see. If it is okay for an off duty officer to carry a loaded fire arm while drinking alcohol in public place ,then there should be no one going to bars or any where public to have a drink. What if a stray bullet hit someone not involved ? the story would be different. If it is okay to shoot somebody for being in a bar fight there would be alot of tragedy's. God bless to the family of Shaun.

TO A MOTHERS PAIN wrote on Mar 12, 2008 3:43 PM:AS A MOTHER I TEACH MY KIDS NOT TO PUT THEMSELVED INTO THAT KIND OF SITUATION. I TEACH MY KIDS TO RESPECT THE LAW, TEACHERS, ADULTS. I TEACH MY KIDS THAT FOR EVERY ACTION THERE WILL BE A REACTION. I TEACH MY KIDS THAT IF SOMEONE WITH A GUN TELLS THEM TO FREEZE, THEN THEY DAMN WELL BETTER FREEZE. I AM A MOTHER WHO KIDS I HOPE WILL MAKE A DIFFERENCE. BY THE WAY.....THE COP WASN'T DRUNK. PLEASE DON'T USE THIS POOR MOTHER ROUTINE, THE JOB OF THAT MOTHER SHOULD HAVE BEEN DONE YEARS AGO. MAYBE AS A TEENAGER HE WOULDN'T HAVE GOTTEN INTO TROUBLE

To everyone talking about Vilan's son... wrote on Mar 12, 2008 4:03 PM:He was not present when the fight broke out and he did not see his father get shot, so stop assuming that to be a fact.

Also, it was stated by the bar owner as well as non-partial witnesses that the officer did not drink - at all. Everyone claiming that he was intoxicated needs to be more informed before opening their box of opinions.

to I Survived Temecula... wrote on Mar 12, 2008 4:05 PM:Yes, Vilan was a brother, father, etc but, I don't know what cruel planet you live on, but on Earth, hitting someone with a metal chair, a beer bottle, kicking them with steel toed boots, or attempting to run them over with a car does make someone a villain. Welcome to humanity.

to GGG wrote on Mar 12, 2008 4:09 PM:the officer's identity was kept confidential to prevent others from seeking vengence. it would be pretty difficult to get his side of the story had one of Vilan's punk friends killed him... and i would not be surprised had that happened.

Just curious... wrote on Mar 12, 2008 4:14 PM:Where in this article does it say that Mr. Vilan hit the police officer? It just says that he was struck from behind. Franchville stated last night in the news that the officer was struck in the back of the head, pulled his weapon and shot at the two closest people to him....

Something to think about....

saw the whole thing first hand wrote on Mar 12, 2008 4:23 PM:You got it all wrong i was there a the time of the shoting and shane is 6 and was taken home by his uncle. also the off duty cop was not toxicated and the only reason he started to get jumped is he accidently touched the jumpers girlfriend's butt (AKA shauns dads friend). the only reason is the jumper grabed the MEATAL BAR STOOL and hit him over the head with it. so his choses were to shoot the people or to get killed by them (what would you chose?). and stop puting all your comments when you don't know what happened that satarday NIGHT because I was right there when it happened.

you are all wrong!!!!!!!!!!!

saw the whole thing first hand

Never! wrote on Mar 12, 2008 4:27 PM:bring a chair to gunfight.

to sharring wrote on Mar 12, 2008 5:25 PM:If Vilan was such a great dad, why was he getting into street fights in front of his child?
DId the cop really desearve a public beating for slapping this woman?
It looks like Vilan had his second chance and make yet another horrible mistake. Also, why do the rest of us have to pay for his first "mistake"? I bet he only thought of his previous crimes a "mistake" when it got him sent to prison. Before that I bet him and his buddies had a good laugh over smashing a bottle on someone's face. Dropping a beer bottle is a mistake. Smashing it in someone's face is intentional. I know that you all felt that Vilan had changed but 9 witnesses who did not know either person saw what happened. I know it is hard to see the truth for your grief but please step back for a minute and see Vilan for the man he really was. A violent guy with a temper so bad he would brawl in the street right in front of his son. Vilan's duty was to set a good example for his son and walk away from trouble. Beating a man for inappropriate touching is an over reaction. Vilan and his guys should have called a cop and pressed charges if the cop's actions were do horrendous. Vilan let his son down by fighting with a stranger. Vilan is to blame for his own bad behavior. I hope that Vilan's family teaches his son the lesson most people teach their children. Walk away from trouble not towards it.

Reality wrote on Mar 12, 2008 5:52 PM:Lets look at the other side of this situation based on what we know. You are at a restaurant/bar with friends and family. A man comes up to one of your friends wives and grabs her backside. You get upset possibly get in his face and exchange words. This man apologizes (based on witness accounts)and walks away. You then leave the restaraunt with your friends and family and as you are leaving you again see this man outside with his back to you and alone. You again are with friends and family and you have your seven year old son with you but you are still angry with what happened in the restaraunt. WHAT WOULD YOU DO!!!!!!!

John wrote on Mar 12, 2008 6:57 PM:To Citizen of Temec...

YOU ARE SO FULL OF IT...

WOW wrote on Mar 12, 2008 8:01 PM:This talk of banning metal chairs is ludacris! Without metal chairs the WWE would crumble!!! Please do not do this this nations world class sport!

A scholar wrote on Mar 12, 2008 8:13 PM:JM he still has a right to protect himself, so don't take it over the top dude. I'm sure he was evaluated at the scene and found to be NOT under the influence of any substance. Cops ARE trained to detect if someone is drunk or high.....thats why he was not charged or taken into custody, you people need to learn the difference and understand WHY some people are arrested and some are NOT. It's not because of their job. GET INFORMED.

Jolly Joe wrote on Mar 12, 2008 8:13 PM:I don't live in the Murrieta/Temecula area but I am there periodically; when I am there I always get a weird vibe from the surroundings. I once saw a staged shoot out in front of "The Bank of Mexican Food" by actors in period costume. Who knew the scene would be re-enacted.

To Never wrote on Mar 12, 2008 8:16 PM:Now that is a nickel's worth of free advice! LOL

The more I read about Vilan's past behavior, it is hard to believe that he he was an innocent bystander. Just curious wrote: the article never said Vilan hit him. I wondered about that as well. It seems that the cop would have shot the person causing immediate pain first. Probably the closest person to him. Just speculating. Also based on the internet articles about the previous assaults, it does not seem out of character for this fella to have been swinging away. Again, just speculating. I think that Occam's law applies to this.

To Fair Cop wrote on Mar 12, 2008 8:21 PM:You are so right on! As for 99% of the comments, it scares me to think what intelligence level these people are on. By the way people the other person mentioned in this story is Taylor Willis. what part did he play in all of this? Besides getting shot.

to reality wrote on Mar 12, 2008 8:26 PM:You commented "what would you do"? Well, I had girlfriends in the past that would make a huge scene out of something like this and try to enflame to big strong guys to fight over her. I ditched that kind of broad quick. Those types that get all angry over something like this don't realize how quickly this can escalate into a brawl. Most women would throw a drink in his face or accept his apology and move on. Only if the guy kept up should the other man step in. If it was a legit accident, you have to let this stuff go or you will be "fighting for your woman's honor" all the time. My wife would probably have laughed it off if she thought the guy did not do it on purpose. Also, she would have stepped in to keep me from doing something dumb and getting arrested. You just cannot fight over all the stupid and borish behavior of other people. If I had to beat up every one who acted innappropriately in front of a woman I was with I would been in a fight every weekend in college. My old man always taught me to walk away because even when you win a fight you still end up with a black eye or arrested or apologizing to your friends for ruining the party.

For Vilan's Mom wrote on Mar 12, 2008 8:48 PM: I feel bad for Vilan's mom. She not only lost a son but she was blinded to the kind of man he really was. She will always see him as that sweet boy so full of hope and mischief on Christmas morning. She never had to see her boy through his victim's eyes. Never had to feel their fear and their pain when he hurt them. She sees him as we all see our children, innocent and sweet. The reality is, he was an angry young man and he let his anger control him. People suffered because of his recklessness and his recklessness and anger finally got him killed. She is blind in her grief and her need to remember him during those moments when he was loving and gentle. This is all she has to cling to as the truth about her son in this horrible moment is broadcast to thousands of people who will only judge him by his bad deeds, not really hearing of his goodness. I feel for her and her pain. I hope that I never have to see my child cause someone else's child suffering and to see my son die because of his anger at the hands of a stranger.
I don't feel sorry for Vilan. I do feel sorry for his mother. Maybe if she could have seen him as he really was many years ago, she could have helped him with his anger. Now all she has is regret and pain. So sad.
I hope the officer and his family can move past this and get on with their lives. It is tragic that their lives intersected with such an angry man and it lead to his death.

To "sharring" wrote on Mar 12, 2008 8:49 PM:Use spell check/grammar check. Your message is lost when it is written like that. Second, you seem very close to this situation. When you get distance and older, you will realize that the only person responsible for what happened this weekend was Vilan. We are all responsible for our choices.

James wrote on Mar 12, 2008 9:08 PM:Do a google search of "People v. Vilan"; and you'll see that the streets are much safer with this guy gone.

Brian A. wrote on Mar 12, 2008 10:53 PM:Has anyone wondered if the cop has been involved in any other similar altercations? Might that possibly be relevant? Is no one bothered that an armed person instigates a situation, while knowing that he was the only one with a gun. He was the one who started the whole thing. Pretty easy to do knowing the advantage he had.
Please, let's find out what his history is! It's not far fetched that he might like to start something while he knows he has a huge advantage.

Steven C wrote on Mar 12, 2008 11:34 PM:To Brian A,

Mistakingly touching another person and apologizing is not "instigating". My wife has been mistakenly patted on the bottom and the "offender" sincerly apologized. I forgave and did not make a big deal of the situation.

Getting hit frm behind with a chair is also hardly "instigating".

Taking the overt action of swinging a chair and assaulting a lone man with a group of your croonies IS "instigating".

The Wizard of Oz wrote on Mar 13, 2008 1:22 AM:He did not "start" anything. haven't you read the article......idiot...which is what you are......

Karl wrote on Mar 13, 2008 5:16 AM:Brian A, your idea is definitely far fetched. What have you got against law enforcement? A rap sheet pages long? Let's wait for the details to come in before we jump to any conclusions.

To J.M wrote on Mar 13, 2008 5:34 AM:J.M. stated he found that "Law Enforcement Officers Act of 2004 signed into law by G.W. Bush states " The privelege conferred by the law applies only when the individual "is not under the influence of alcohol or another intoxicating or hallucinatory drug or substance."

he failed to mention that act was passes for reciprocal carry OUT OF STATE so that cops from one state could carry in another. Please dont quote acts if youre only going to pick one sentence and take it out of context.

esteban wrote on Mar 13, 2008 7:46 AM:Citizen of Temec...so you think he should be treated as a suspect UNTIL the facts come in? If you were accused of a crime, is that how YOU would want to be treated? You don't agree with innocent until proven guilty? YOur post shows a lot about your intelligence, or lack thereof.

CRUSER wrote on Mar 13, 2008 8:33 AM:look at GOOGLE"PEOPLE V.VILAN" then judge what type person this is

J.M. wrote on Mar 13, 2008 8:47 AM:So the Feds have laws against carrying concealed and drinking... but the State doesn't?... Bet a good lawyer is gonna make some money with that one...

To Brian A. wrote on Mar 13, 2008 9:39 AM:There is a public website called ratemycop.com. As soon as the officer's name is released you can look him up here.
Many of you seem to feel that the police are treating this officer differently than a criminal suspect. The reality is, the police are highly scrutinized by the media, city councils, watch dog groups and defense attorneys. They have so many people looking over thier shoulders they spend most of there time documenting incidents in reports instead of actually patrolling and intervening. I know it makes a great story on TV when when a cop goes bad and a corrupt department covers it up. In the real world that does not happen very often. It does happen, there are corrupt and mean cops but most of them are just folks like the rest of us just trying to get by in a harsh world. As far as being treated differently, officers are automatically given legal counsel and help from thier union. It seems unfair but cops are always the target of lawsuits by unscrupulous people trying to get rich by suing a public servant. The person in this case died and his family retained legal counsel almost immediately. The officer was probably advised to get legal counsel right away too. He needs to protect his family & home from a lawsuit just like you or I would if we were in this situation. Since so much litigation is brought against so many police departments they need to get the lawyers involved as soon as possible. Unfortunately, most of the lawsuits are frivilous attempts to get money not to seek real justice. The police know that when an officer is involved with a shooting, on or off duty, that they must thoroughly investiagate and document every small detail. They must also be very careful to NOT try to hide anything because it can and has led to jail time for cops in the past. With so many people watching the police in the media and so many people with thier own agendas it makes it really really hard to hide the truth for long. If this cop did something wrong, we will find out. Since this Vilan fella had such a violent past and the officer has probably never been arrested it will be difficult to prove that he (vilan) had no culpability in the matter. Vilan and his friend could have retreated or called the police themselves if the officer really assaulted this woman. Most of us trust the police far more than convicted felons. It may not be right, but it is true. Since I know many officers and know their character, I would tend to give them the benefit of the doubt. Conversely, I grew up around a few felons and know first hand that most of them cannot be trusted. Some can but be trusted but thier criminal past will always cast doubt on their actions. When you consider how many criminals are repeat offenders its easy to see the anecdotal evidence and quickly mistrust them. Since many convicted felons suffer from mental illness like anger management and rage disorder and most cops are screened for mental health issues before they can even attend the academy it really makes it hard to side with the person with a criminal past. Cops are given a battery of tests to make sure they are not cruel, dishonest, mean or crazy. Not to protect the public so much as to head off problems for the department down the road. It is really bad PR to let a crazy cop on the street with a gun. Sometimes one will get past the screeners. History does tend to repeat itself. If a person has committed violent crimes there is a statistical probability they will commit another one eventually. This goes for both cops and felons.

TO SAD SUE wrote on Mar 13, 2008 9:53 AM:YOU MUST BE A FORMER CIMINAL. DID YOU ACTUALLY READ THE ARTICLE BEFORE YOU COMMENTED?

Reardon wrote on Mar 13, 2008 10:08 AM:If you mess with the Bull, you get the horns!

to J.M. wrote on Mar 13, 2008 10:14 AM:alcohol level is only one thing to consider. We need to look at the whole picture instead of fixating on one part of it. Private citizens can carry a concealed weapon and still defend themselve even if there was alcohol involved. It is important to distinguish if the amount of alcohol in either party was enough to be a contributing factor. It is just one piece of the puzzle. It if is a factor for the officer, it is also a factor for the guy who died. If Vilan had more to drink than the cop, how will that affect your point of view? Don't forget, the blade cuts both ways.

Vista resident wrote on Mar 13, 2008 10:48 AM:I've seen it all before. A violent felon, with a criminal history as long as a horses tail, expires after being shot. Then, of course, the idea of a "vigil" takes place to gain "sympathy"
for the aggressor. It just seems like a weird culture when people try to put a "twist" on a story that is obvious.

J.M. wrote on Mar 13, 2008 11:55 AM:to J.M.... honestly my point of view is that Vilan was made the agressor and tried in the papers. He did not have a voice... was his past good? No. He has not even been named as the agressor or attacker. He was splashed all over the papers the next morning.... Made a criminal. The law says no drinking and driving... that you killed no one, commited no driving errors and controlled your vehicle does not count... only your BAC at a check point. I find this in starck contrast to the 4th Amendment... If a law exists to find a cop guilty of using a fire arm illegally/alcohol in system... then hold him to the same standards that you did to the guy who was convicted of a BAC at a certain level... Like you have heard before... The law is the law.

esteban wrote on Mar 13, 2008 12:53 PM:JM...a problem in your argument that you fail to see is that the cop did not use his firearm illegally.

Steve C. wrote on Mar 13, 2008 1:02 PM:To J.M.? at 11:55,

Thae law aslo states that every person is entitled to defend themselves from great bodily injury or death and does not have disclaimer that voids it if alcohol is involved. Besides you are jumping to a conclusion that the off duty officer was under the influence. Just like you are saying the papers tried Vilan for being the agressor. A bit of a contradiction I must say.

I will say this. "If it was like a duck, talk like a duck then it must be a duck". ... .

Blah, Blah, Blah wrote on Mar 13, 2008 2:13 PM:For dayspeople have been trying to add some kind of justification to this story. The passion for this incident is overwhelming and flares tempers high on these hidden emotions of typed words behind silent screens. One reading these comments can clearly see that there is as much anomisity and anger here being vented as one would think took place at the scene of anger that created this tragedy, no kind of compassion expressed for a society that is so uptight willing to lash out with arguing words and exilerated emotions. It is this kind of venting that lives and breeds within our societies that causes meaningless shootings, fights and killings. Pointing the blame, taking no responsibility for our actions, blaming the police department, a metal chair, in all actuality by minding our own business and having true forgiveness when someone makes a mistake and says they're sorry, this all could of been avoided. And that is tragic!!!

SHAME ON YOU wrote on Mar 13, 2008 2:51 PM:All of you who are judging Shaun you will be judged too. I'm sure half of you "call yourselves Christians". If you didn't know Shaun you should keep your mouth shut or your opinions to yourself.

For the person who wrote to the Mother, what a heartless thing to say, she just lost her son, regardless of the cause.

SHAME ON ALL OF YOU.

Shaun was a great man no matter what his past was. He served his time and was making a life for him and his son. Don't forget his past was over 10 years ago, people grow in that time. I'm sure some of you have things in your past you're not proud of. They may not be to that extreme, but I'm sure you wouldn't want everyone to be talking about it.
To: saw the whole thing first hand,
Really now it's a bar stool. Its nice how everyone over exaggerates.

It’s scary to see the kind of people that are in our community.

barstool or chair? wrote on Mar 13, 2008 4:10 PM:To shame on you.
What is the difference between a barstool and a metal chair? How is one an exaggeration? Both are potentially lethal. You just have to work a little harder to kill with it instead of a gun.
We are judged by our past acts both good and bad. Vilan may have served his time and paid his debt to the state but that does not mean we won't judge him by his past acts. He had been judged for his efforts as a father and his attempt to rehabilitate himself after prison. Had he turned around and walked away we would not had the opportunity to talk about it here. Everyone would have gone on with their lives, including Vilan.
This is a cautionary tale. Teach your children to walk, even run, from trouble and you will probably live to ripe old age.

metal chair or barstool? wrote on Mar 13, 2008 4:15 PM:To shame on you.
What is the difference between a barstool and a metal chair? How is one an exaggeration? Both are potentially lethal. You just have to work a little harder to kill with it instead of a gun.
We are judged by our past acts both good and bad. Vilan may have served his time and paid his debt to the state but that does not mean we won't judge him by his past acts. He had been judged for his efforts as a father and his attempt to rehabilitate himself after prison. Had he turned around and walked away we would not had the opportunity to talk about it here. Everyone would have gone on with their lives, including Vilan.
This is a cautionary tale. Teach your children to walk, even run, from trouble and you will probably live to ripe old age.

HA! wrote on Mar 13, 2008 4:25 PM:Wow, way to pull the Christian card...This man would have killed a cop if he didn't defend himself!!! what dont you get about that??? Everyone makes mistakes, but some people pay for them and he did...

sue wrote on Mar 13, 2008 4:28 PM:Why are we all jumping to conclusions. No one should be arrested till there is clear evidence that they are guilty of something. And... we have on evidence that there was or wasn't a change in lifestyle of the attacker. As to the fight, self defense is an acceptable reason for violence. My prayers are with both families.

A real Angel wrote on Mar 13, 2008 4:58 PM:I find it amazing that so many people are insensitive to the fact that a man is dead and a child has lost his father a mother has lost her son and someone has lost a brother…let all the facts come out before so many poor statements are made…in a lawsuit crazy society I would bet that 90% of you would be planning to profit on your family members death in the same scenario and would proclaiming what a wonderful person they were. Yes old town has become overrun with ... wannabe bikers who have mortgage their homes to the hilt to buy a Harley and a few desert toys along with some poorly done tattoos.

Bob wrote on Mar 13, 2008 5:51 PM:Who said anything about judgment? Look at the court documents and admissions of the deceased. He admitted to being a thug. Was he turning his life around? Apparently not, but we'll have to wait for a complete and thorough investigation before we'll know for sure.

Bob wrote on Mar 13, 2008 5:55 PM:I looked up the criminal history and case notes on the victim, Shaun Vilan. He was no angel. Did he deserve to die Saturday? That's up to an investigative team, and perhaps a judge and jury. The articles I've read all talk about how he was trying to turn his life around, but it's funny how alcohol can turn Dr. Jeckyll into Mr. Hyde.
Take the time to read the first 'google' entry that appears when you search for "People Vs. Vilan" This guy had some serious issues, and was set-off very easily, and without provocation. Just my observation. I'm sure I'll get 'flamed' by his friends and family. Oh, and as a side note, that officer has to live with the fact that he took another person's life for the rest of his days. That's not at all an easy thing to live with, even if you did it to save your own life. Think about that for a moment before you prosecute the officer without knowing all the facts.

Mr. Murrieta wrote on Mar 13, 2008 6:31 PM:I don't live in Temecula, but it is a nice town. This incident just goes to show that bad things such as this can happen anywhere; even in bedroom communities. My friend was down there in Old Town when the shooting happened. His account of the truth certainly doesn't match what this "Villian's" family is saying. It makes me sick that the family of this parolee is posturing to make a quick buck as a result of their thug relative's death! If I had the right to legally carry a gun, and someone hit me over the head with a chair, I'd shoot them too to defend myself. Get a grip on reality people! I had to laugh to myself when I saw the guy's "cell mate" from prison on the news say, "He was a good guy."

diane wrote on Mar 13, 2008 8:39 PM:Wow! Not a very upstanding family. Google OWEN VILAN! The apple does not fall far from the tree!!

to Diane wrote on Mar 13, 2008 8:58 PM:I googled Oren Vilan and saw guy from Mesa who was indicted for fraud. How do you know he is related? Just curious.

leMay wrote on Mar 13, 2008 9:21 PM:How come know one is going after the cop for sexual battery. That was a seperate incident and should be treated as such. The cop should be required to register as a sexual violent predator.

Hey Jose wrote on Mar 13, 2008 9:22 PM:The best fathers, sons and brothers in our life can cause suffering from their actions. It is a loss for the family and all those who love him, but he is the one who took that action. It was probably without a lot of forethought of those he loves, but rather an immediate reaction that would be forever regretted. Why not look at the good he has done and appreciate it rather than dwell on the injustice of his ill thought reaction.

How would it be for the person who is faced with the impacts of a momentary bad reaction? A person is brutally struck and fearing for his life. In a matter of seconds, a decision is made and the consequences are felt for life. Do I want to lie here and be beaten to death or do I react? Such a thought is something nobody wants to be faced with, but it has to be made.

It is argued that alcohol could be a decisive factor, but I think not. This is not a situation where alcohol could impair reflex, but a question of whether it impairs decision. That must be far beyond what is usually consumed during dinner. From the facts that have been release, injured officer was capable of warning that he is an off duty officer and armed which is not consistent with a person with impair decision. That suggests the only impairment would be how quickly and accurately he reacted. Since those who suffered from the officer’s reaction are the ones who caused his fear, I see little effects of any alcohol impairment in his actions. That leaves a question of the effects of alcohol that could cause someone to attack and not back off from an armed officer.

It is always regretful to hear of a senseless loss of life. However, an officer survived a provoked or unprovoked attack and must live with his actions and injury. If I was in his place, I would feel fortunate to have survived and accept that what I did was right. There is no second guessing the moment of survival.

to leMay wrote on Mar 13, 2008 9:32 PM:Well, it was only one slap on the behind. It did not require hospitalization or stitches and the alleged perpetrator publicly apologized for his actions. If it had been a criminal act, Vilan and his friends could have pressed charges instead of getting into a fight with him. If the actions were so horrible calling the police would have been the appropriate action to take, not violence.

Battery wrote on Mar 13, 2008 9:41 PM:This is in response to "leMay." First, you need to prove that the battery was for the purposes of sexual gratification. If the subject was a mistake in identity, and there is no intent for sexual gratification, then the issue of of sexual assault is moot. Please read the California Penal Code before you make such an uninformed comment on the world wide web! Get a grip and get your facts straight!

Joe wrote on Mar 13, 2008 10:05 PM:Why should the Police Officer have to be interrogated right away? Isn't he allowed the Rights of Miranda also??? Like the right to remain silent and the right to have an attorney present during questioning??? C'mon Sue and J.M. you know the rest of them...

It's funny how a gang member, Parolee' or someone that's had a long history of criminal activity that dies, they're "Always" just turning their life around...

I'm with Ron... Good guys 1 Thugs 0

AGAIN wrote on Mar 13, 2008 10:43 PM:Not one time does this article say that Shaun Vilan struck the officer. He was with a group of people.

I seriously believe that certain articles should be closed to comments and this is one of them.

It continues to disgust me how everyone is judging, judging, judging. Who the hell made any of you God?

I wonder how many of you were posting comments to alleged statutory rapist Randy Nack about how you were praying for him and he was in God's hands.

A man is DEAD. He may or may not have attacked this officer. But because he was involved in an incident when he was 18 years old, he must be a real ... because you sure never did anything wrong when you were 18 did you? Get drunk? Smoke a bowl of weed? Masturbate on a holy day? Oh no, you are all saints apparently sitting up in your SUV in judgment of a man who had made some past mistakes, who liked to have a few drinks.

The attitudes of people in this article are one of the reasons why I left North County. You are all living in the stone age. Go back to the midwest shanty town that you crawled out of.

Confused wrote on Mar 13, 2008 11:19 PM:Can someone please refer me to anything that states that Shaun Vilan struck the officer with a metal chair? I may have missed it.

Confused wrote on Mar 13, 2008 11:27 PM:Can someone please refer me to anything that states that Shaun Vilan struck the officer with a metal chair? I may have missed it. The only references to him that I have been able to read about are that he died from being shot in the chest, and that he was paroled convicted felon.

esteban wrote on Mar 14, 2008 8:50 AM:To Again....thanks for leaving north county. Also, I have done all those things you mentioned, drank, smoked, even the last one you said (don't tell my mom)...but what I haven't done is smashed a beer bottle on someone's face...4 different times. I don't think you can characterize Vilan as a man who "liked to have a few drinks." He was a violent loser and this was the only way it was gonna end for him. I'm just sorry he brought a child into this world. My opinion is shared by most.

Temecula Resident wrote on Mar 14, 2008 12:14 PM:Estaban,

True that!!!!

I hate to admit it wrote on Mar 14, 2008 3:35 PM:but Estaban is right.

DbizinOC wrote on Mar 14, 2008 4:25 PM:1)Why is it fair to publish the name and background of the one killed for all to read and comment on while keeping the name and background of the shooter secret? Does the shooter have a history of violence in his background?
The answer no the shooter does not have a history of violence or he would not remain an officer. The press pulls up public records and unfortuneatley for Shaun he had plenty of public records.

2)Why are the police being so wishy-washy on their policy regarding off-duty carrying of a gun while drinking?
Police are not being wishy washy on anything- If there was alcohol present it will be considered. It does not mitigate the fact that the officer was struck from behind with a weapon and attacked my multiple individuals. Even if intoxicated a person has the right to defend themselves against a life threatening situation.
3)Why would a cop fire multiple rounds with many innocent men, women and children close by?
To save his life. Why would a group of thugs attack a man from behind then continue to beat him after he identified himself as a cop?
4)Why would the police chief say he "could not confirm" whether or not a blood/alcohol test had been given to the shooter several day after the event?
He did not have the information and would not publicly comment on what he is not sure of.
5)Why, according to "the investigation" is there now two "sides" during the earlier encounter when we had been lead to believe the cop was all by himself against several aggressors? There are always more than one side to any altercation unless you kick your own ... The officer had friends that were inside the establishment. He went outside alone. Didn’t you read the reports?
6)Why are the police saying the cop "is not being treated differently than anyone else would be"? No name, no background history, Maybe no alcohol test since the chief doesn't even know.
A BAT test was taken at the hospital, it is standard procedure for an officer involved shooting. He was not treated differently other than as a victim. His testimony isn’t the most important. The independent witness accounts are the most important in an investigation like this. Initial witness reports will guide an investigation. Once it was determined that he was struck from behind and had identified himself as a police officer his defense is solid for a justifiable shooting.

Everyone bashing the police and screaming conspiracy need to learn something about the law and its procedures first.

Unbelievable wrote on Mar 14, 2008 5:16 PM:Thanks DbizinOC!!! I felt like I was banging my head against the wall reading this thread.

The off-duty officer had EVERY RIGHT to defend himself (even if he had been drinking). Let's just put it this way...you go out to a bar with your friends, you have 3 cocktails, you go outside to make a phone call, you're hit it the back of the head and knocked down. If I had a gun, I'd shoot whoever did it. It's called SELF-DEFENSE people. It doesn't only apply if you're sober when you're attacked!!!

YOU wrote on Mar 14, 2008 5:17 PM:YOU ALL NEED TO GET A LIFE!!!

To HA! wrote on Mar 14, 2008 5:28 PM:I'm not pulling any Christian card. But arent Christians told not to judge? Arent they taught to forgive?
For your comment, "This man would have killed a cop if he didn't defend himself!!!” Where does it say that Shaun hit this man with a chair? Can you point me in that direction? Or are you simply assuming it was him? Are you playing God along with Estevan.

esteban wrote on Mar 14, 2008 6:49 PM:To all you cop haters...AHHAHAAHAHAAAAAA...The cops win .......again!

Unbelievable wrote on Mar 14, 2008 6:54 PM:9 INDEPENDENT witnesses. One that even knew him!

to unbelievable wrote on Mar 15, 2008 10:14 AM:How did they catagorize someone as INDEPENDENT if the knew him?

Unbelievable wrote on Mar 15, 2008 11:08 AM:Sorry...knew who he was from school, but wasn't a friend of his.

Unbelievable wrote on Mar 15, 2008 11:18 AM:By the way, read the statement from the witness posted below:

I have spoken to the police several times and gave my eyewitness statement, as did my friends.

I was outside on the patio when this happened. I had been with my group of friends at The Bank since about 5:00. I was also at the vigil last night and spoke to some of Shaun's friends and family members as it was winding down. I also spoke to the Temecula Chief of Police last nite as well.

There are 2 completely differing accounts depending on who you talk to, UNBIASED witnesses like myself or Shaun's people - is anyone surprised? Isn't this always the way it is? I truely feel for the innocent victims - Dillan, Shaun's mom and other family members, Shaun's friends who weren't there or involved, the cop's family, etc.

However I was there and need NO convincing whatsoever as to what occurred. ... Was the cop wrong for the slap? Yes. Did he apologize? Yes. Should it have ended there? Yes. Was the cop drunk? We don't know yet. Did Shaun deserve to die? No. Did he die because of his own actions. Definitely.

The Police Chief said that they will be releasing all details of their investigation today including the officer's toxicology report. Stay tuned...

Susie wrote on Mar 15, 2008 6:23 PM:I do not know the facts on carrying hand guns. Can an average joe citizen carry a loaded weapon around with them? Or are police officers the only citizens allowed to do this?

K wrote on Mar 15, 2008 7:09 PM:First off, I am a parent and do feel horribly for Shaun's parents.

However, in response to "family has retained an attorney"

Shaun's mother, Karen, and current husband, lost a big lawsuit against City of Temecula (and others) several years ago when another son received a fatal head injury while skateboarding.

PARENTS: Teach your kids the concept of decision making and how it relates to responsibilty and consequences.

I'd like to know what Karen's reaction was the last time Shaun was arrested and convicted for assault?? Probably went something like this: "It's all lies they're making up and the truth will come out. "We just know that he's innocent"

Cops are people too wrote on Mar 17, 2008 7:40 AM: There is too little info out there for anyone here to make ANY sort of judgement.

Cops can and will make the same mistakes convicted felons make. How many cops have become covicted felons.....too many to count. Just this morning I heard of a off-duty cop shooting a lady in some sort of road rage mis-hap.

So before you yell cops 1 bad guys 0, now who the bad guy is.

Give a prayer for all, the child who lost a father, and the cop who has to live with taking a life.

In Temecula wrote on Mar 22, 2008 10:24 AM:There are too many victims in this country. No, not real victims, but ignorant citizens who take citizenship forgranted and assume their "rights" trump everyone else's. Be responsible, have a sense of shame, and accept the consequences of your choices - period.

For Mr. Vilan - a justified shooting, no question. To those here who cannot comprehend the right of self defense and the right of an off-duty police office to carry a loaded firearm and use it following the same rules when in uniform, ignorance of the law is no excuse ... perhaps you should refrain from airing comments as edicts.

Whether anyone reading these postings is smart enough to realize it, our streets are overrun by criminals who hide behind protected classes and corrupt attorneys. No American should ever have to worry that a gang (please look up this word...) of miscreets will deliver an incapacitating blow of any kind or carrying anything. Regardless of what any of you believes might have transpired beforehand, the fact is that Mr. Vilan physically assaulted another man with a group of men in tow, which would justify ANYONE using lethal force to protect themselves - period. If it were you taking the chair to the head, blood streaming into your face, I am sure you see the light. If it were my own son engaging in the same behavior as Mr. Vilan, despite my pain, I would blame myself for raising such a poor example of humanity and releasing him on the citizenry.

Of all the freedoms you cherish as Americans, you should cherish the freedom you have the least, freedom from fear. The fear that your child, spouse, parent, or other loved one might be brutilized or victimized by someone like Mr. Vilan. You may not believe he deserved to die for his crime, which is your right, but the law completely defends the policeman's actions, as they would defend your right to self defense of yourself and your loved ones.

If this makes you feel uncomfortable, good - it should. However, see beyond your ignorance and solve the problem, don't attack the symptoms. Mr. Vilan was a violent criminal, fact, and a danger to society, fact, and he has just proven it again. What if your husband or father had accidentally bumped one of the women in thier group, would you feel that having him beat to deatch was warranted, or would you expect the protection of the law and your fellow citizens?

Don't be hippocritical.

Don't forget who attacked whom wrote on Mar 26, 2008 12:29 PM:Had the officer not taken the action he did, he probably would have been killed. Thankfully, it was an off-duty officer who was attacked, as he had the ability to meet deadly force with deadly force.

This incident is yet another example of the good that firearms can do when in the hands of a law abiding and properly trained individual.

While it is tragic that anyone died here, let's not forget who initiated the attack.