Los Angeles police fatally shot a man Wednesday evening after he allegedly swung a baseball bat at cars and bystanders near a freeway onramp. The incident occurred around 6:30 p.m. beneath the 10 Freeway, near Normandie Avenue and Washington Boulevard in the West Adams neighborhood.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
Officers responded to reports of a man armed with a bat threatening pedestrians and striking occupied vehicles. When police arrived, the man was still wielding the bat at officers and bystanders, prompting them to open fire. The man was pronounced dead at a hospital after receiving medical attention.
Deeper Dive & Context
Witness Accounts
Neighbors expressed shock at the sudden violence. Hazel Flores, a nearby resident, said her children heard gunshots and saw paramedics performing CPR on the man. She recorded video of the aftermath, showing emergency responders working on the man before he was taken away in an ambulance.
Police Response
Los Angeles police Capt. Mike Bland stated that initial reports indicated the man was swinging the bat at people and had struck occupied vehicles. Officers said the man continued to wield the bat at them and bystanders, leading to the fatal shooting.
Community Impact
The incident raised concerns about safety in the neighborhood. Flores expressed hesitation about letting her children play outside, saying, "You're in your neighborhood, you want to be safe, but then it makes you think twice."
Investigation
The bat was booked into evidence, and an investigation into the shooting is underway. No additional details on why officers opened fire have been provided.