Three people were injured in a shooting on Skid Row in downtown Los Angeles on Thursday evening, authorities said. The incident occurred around 7:10 p.m. near the northeast corner of San Julian and Sixth streets, where a man approached a group of three—two women and a man—and opened fire. 'This is where I do business,' the gunman allegedly said before fleeing northbound on San Julian Street, according to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).
The victims—a 21-year-old man, a 62-year-old woman, and a woman in her 30s—were hospitalized in stable condition. Police described two of the victims as homeless. The suspect remains at large, and no further details about his identity or motive have been released.
Investigation Continues
Authorities have not confirmed whether the shooting was gang-related. The LAPD did not immediately provide a description of the suspect. The case is under active investigation, with officers reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses.
Community Impact
Skid Row, a densely populated area with a high concentration of homeless individuals, has been the site of multiple violent incidents in recent years. Advocacy groups have long called for increased police presence and social services in the area. However, some residents express skepticism about law enforcement's ability to address root causes of violence.
Policy Context
The shooting comes amid ongoing debates over homelessness and public safety in Los Angeles. City officials have faced criticism over their handling of both issues, with some advocating for stricter enforcement while others push for expanded mental health and housing resources.