Death threats target Calif. deputy who fatally shot 13-year-old carrying pellet gun

SANTA ROSA, Calif. – Sheriff's officials say the Northern California deputy who fatally shot a 13-year-old boy has been the target of threats.

The Sonoma County Sheriff's Office confirmed the deputy's identity to the Press Democrat of Santa Rosa (http://bit.ly/1al07gN ) on Sunday as 48-year-old Erick Gelhaus.

Gelhaus, a 24-year sheriff's office veteran, shot and killed Andy Lopez last week in Santa Rosa. Investigators say Gelhaus mistook the pellet gun Lopez was carrying for an assault rifle.

Assistant Sheriff Lorenzo Duenas says his office is still dealing with threats against Gelhaus and would take steps to protect him if necessary.

But it decided to confirm his identity because his name was circulating publicly.

Meanwhile, more than 1,000 people turned out for a service to remember Andy on Sunday.