Suspect in custody over fatal shooting of two US police officers

A suspect is in custody following the fatal shooting of two police officers at a home in Palm Springs, California.

Lesley Zerebny, a new recruit who had recently given birth, and Jose "Gil" Vega, a veteran officer due to retire, were responding with a third officer to a woman's call for help about her adult son causing a disturbance when they were all shot about 12.18pm (6.18am Sunday AEDT), Chief Bryan Reyes from the Palm Springs Police Department said.

The man allegedly refused to let them enter the home and threatened to shoot them, Chief Reyes said.

About ten minutes later, shots were fired and more emergency service workers were called to the scene.

The two officers died en route to hospital, while the third officer remains in hospital and is "doing well", Chief Reyes said.

Ms Zerebny, 27, had recently returned to duty after giving birth four months ago.

Mr Vega, a 35-year veteran of the police force, was due to end his official duties in December and was not supposed to be at work on Saturday, but chose to take on an overtime shift, Press Enterprise reports.

"I'm awake in a nightmare right now," Chief Reyes said.

"But as the chief of police I've got to step forward and stay focused."

Palm Springs Mayor Rob Moon called the day "the worst day of his life". 

Authorities have not released the alleged offender's identity.