Grand jury declines to charge Guttenberg police officer in 2024 death
Investigators reviewed evidence, including witness statements, 911 calls, police radio transmissions, body‑worn camera footage, surveillance video, photographs and autopsy results.
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A state grand jury has decided not to file criminal charges against a Guttenberg police officer following its review of a fatal encounter that occurred in the township in November 2024.
The civilian who died during the incident was identified as Brandon Lee Ortega, 26, of Mexia, Texas. After hearing testimony and reviewing evidence, the grand jury voted “no bill” on March 23, concluding no criminal charges should be brought against Officer Brandon Sauerwald.
Investigators reviewed extensive evidence, including witness statements, 911 calls, police radio transmissions, body‑worn camera footage, surveillance video, photographs and autopsy results.
According to investigators, Guttenberg police officers were called to the area of 68th Street and Bellevue Avenue at about 11:02 p.m. on Nov. 12, 2024, after a report of a disturbance. A property owner told officers he had rented a room to a woman who never arrived and instead encountered two men and a woman attempting to enter the property. An argument followed, and one man was reported to have displayed a blue firearm.
Officers searched the area and later located Ortega near 7000 John F. Kennedy Boulevard East.
Police said Ortega ran from Officer Sauerwald and attempted to carjack a vehicle during the brief chase. After the attempt failed, the driver followed Ortega as the officer continued pursuit.
Police said Ortega climbed over a railing and fell about 68 feet. Emergency responders arrived, but Ortega was pronounced dead at the scene. A firearm with a black grip and metallic blue coloring was recovered, authorities said.
Video from police body‑worn cameras, surveillance cameras and related 911 calls is being released to the public.
Members of Ortega’s family were given an opportunity to review the recordings before their release.
The Attorney General’s Office said the grand jury’s decision concludes the criminal review of the incident.
