LAPD Blog

Shooting Leaves One Dead and One Injured

North Hollywood: Los Angeles Police Department Valley Bureau Homicide detectives are asking for the public's help in providing any information that would lead to the identification and arrest of the suspect responsible for killing a man.

On Monday, October 29, 2018, around 10:15 p.m., North Hollywood Division officers responded to a radio call of shots fired at Denny Avenue and Victory Boulevard in the City of Los Angeles. Upon their arrival, officers were flagged down by a female who stated someone was shot inside a residence in the 6400 block of Denny Avenue. Officers entered the residence and discovered two victims with gunshot wounds.

Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics responded and pronounced one of the victims, a 30-year-old male, dead at the scene. The second victim, a 23-year-old male, was transported to a local hospital and is expected to survive his injuries.

The investigation revealed a 45-50-year-old male Hispanic suspect arrived at the residence, at which time, he and the surviving victim had a verbal dispute. The suspect shot both victims before fleeing on foot, westbound on Victory Boulevard.

Anyone with information is urged to call Detective Mark O'Donnell, Valley Bureau Homicide, at 818-374-9550. During non-business hours, or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org. Tipsters may also visit www.lapdonline.org, and click on "Anonymous Web Tips" under the "Get Involved-Crime Stoppers" menu to submit an onlinetip. Lastly, tipsters may also download the "P3 Tips" mobile application and select the LA Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.

Missing 40-Year-Old Male NR18274dm

 

Los Angeles: The family of Damon Field and the Los Angeles Police Department's Missing Persons Unit are asking for the public's help in locating him.

Damon was last seen on October 13, 2018, at 1:00 a.m., in the 1100 block of Ruggiero Ave in the City of Los Angeles. He hasn't been seen since and his family is concerned.

Damon is described as a 40-year-old White male with brown hair and blue eyes. He stands 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighs approximately 120 pounds. Damon was wearing a black T-shirt and black sweat pants with a white stripe. He has a tattoo of Mickey Mouse on his left shoulder.

Damon Field

If you have seen, or have any information regarding the whereabouts of Damon Field, please contact the L.A.P.D.'s Missing Persons Unit at (213) 996-1800. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.
Tipsters may also visit www.lapdonline.org, and click on "Anonymous Web Tips" under the
"Get Involved-Crime Stoppers" menu to submit an onlinetip. Lastly, tipsters may also
download the "P3 Tips" mobile application and select the LA Regional Crime Stoppers as
their local program.

Fraud via Bitcoin

 

Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department Hollenbeck Division would like to alert the public of reports of fraud taking place to its community members.

The caller(s) are claiming the member's social security number has been stolen and a payment must be made via Bitcoin to avoid further fraud/theft.

The callers are telling the victims that they are from the Police Department and give out an 800-toll free number that they can verify the number by searching on the internet and it will show it's a Police Department toll free phone number.

The victims are being asked to empty their bank accounts to stop the fraud and theft, however this is a SCAM and ploy to empty the savings of the victims.

Please DO NOT follow their directions.

If you receive a call from anyone alerting you to Social Security theft, we ask that you contact your local LAPD station and your respective bank.

Tips to avoid getting scammed

Get it in writing. Verbal promises don't count. It doesn't matter what the salesperson tells you, the only thing that matters is what's written down. Most sales contracts specifically state that verbal promises are not binding. That's why you need to read, understand, and agree to the terms before you sign any contract.
Never send money to someone you have never met face-to-face. Seriously, just don't ever do it. And really, really don't do it if they ask you to use wire transfer, a prepaid debit card, or a gift card (those cannot be traced and are as good as cash).
Don't believe everything you see. Scammers are great at mimicking official seals, fonts, and other details. Just because a website or email looks official does not mean that it is. Even Caller ID can be faked.

Never share personally identifiable information with someone who has contacted you unsolicited, whether it's over the phone, by email, on social media, even at your front door. This includes banking and credit card information, your birthdate, and Social Security/Social Insurance numbers.
Don't be pressured to act immediately. Scammers typically try to make you think something is scarce or a limited time offer. They want to push you into action before you have time to think or to discuss it with a family member, friend, or financial advisor. High-pressure sales tactics are also used by some legitimate businesses, but it's never a good idea to make an important decision quickly.
Whenever possible, work with local businesses that have proper identification, licensing, and insurance, especially contractors who will be coming into your home or anyone dealing with your money or sensitive information. Check them out at bbb.org to see what other consumers have experienced.
Be cautious about what you share on social media and consider only connecting with people you already know. Be sure to use privacy settings on all social media and online accounts. Imposters often get information about their targets from their online interactions, and can make themselves sound like a friend or family member because they know so much about you.
Sign up for free scam alerts from the FTC at ftc.gov/scams. Get the latest tips and advice about scams sent right to your inbox.

LAPD Statement Regarding Shooting at a Synagogue in Pittsburgh

Los Angeles: We are monitoring the situation in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania very closely and communicating with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners. Right now there is no apparent connection to Los Angeles. However, out of an abundance of caution you will see extra patrols around houses of worship today. Remember if you see something...say something.

Shooting Leaves One Young Man Dead

Wilmington: The Los Angeles Police Department's Harbor Area Homicide detectives are seeking the public's assistance in identifying the suspect(s) responsible for the shooting death of 18-year-old Christopher Johnson of Wilmington.

On October 25, 2018, around 6:04 p.m., Johnson was walking in the area of West M Street and Ronan Avenue in the city of Wilmington, when unknown suspect(s) fired multiple rounds at him.

The Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics responded and treated Johnson for gunshot wounds. However, he did not respond to medical treatment and died from his injuries at a local hospital.

Detectives have no leads on a vehicle description or suspect(s).

Anyone with additional information is urged to call Detective Cortez or Sergeant Oliva, Harbor Area Detectives, at 310-726-7889 or 310-726-7886. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org. Tipsters may also visit www.lapdonline.org, and click on "Anonymous Web Tips" under the "Get Involved-Crime Stoppers" menu to submit an online tip. Lastly, tipsters may also download the "P3 Tips" mobile application and select the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.   

Suspicious Package at Central Mail Facility

Update
October 24, 2018

The LAPD Bomb Squad rendered the package safe and the LAPD is now handing the investigation over to the FBI.


Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department is investigating a suspicious package discovered at the United States Postal Service, Los Angeles Central Mail facility.

On October 24, 2018 at 2:00 p.m., the Los Angeles Police Department received a call of a suspicious package in the 7000 block of South Central Avenue in Los Angeles.

While we attempt to determine its contents and origins, the facility is being evacuated.

We are working closely with our federal law enforcement partners given the number of suspicious devices discovered across the nation.

As more information is available we will provide updates.

Burglary Suspect Caught on Video in the Hollywood Hills NR18262ti

Hollywood: The Los Angeles Police Department's Hollywood Area detectives are seeking the public's assistance in identifying a burglary suspect caught on video in the Hollywood Hills.

On Wednesday, October 3, 2018, around 3 p.m., a burglary occurred near the 1600 block of Woods Drive. This area has seen an increase in the number of residential burglaries in recent weeks. The suspect parked in front of the victim's home and pried open a sliding glass door with a concealed crowbar. He then entered the residence and removed jewelry and watches before fleeing in his vehicle.



The suspect is described as a light skinned Hispanic or White male, and was driving a possible 2007 grey or silver BMW with a blue convertible top bearing a black or dark blue paper plate with yellow writing.

Anyone with information should call Hollywood Division Detective Patrick Aluotto at 213-972-2929. During non-business hours, or on weekends, calls should be Directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org. Tipsters may also visit www.lapdonline.org, and click on "Anonymous Web Tips" under the "Get Involved-Crime Stoppers" menu to submit an online tip. Lastly, tipsters may also download the "P3 Tips" mobile application and select the LA Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.

Officer-Involved-Shooting in Van Nuys Division

**The following information is based on a preliminary and ongoing investigation, which continues to evolve as investigators interview witnesses, review physical and electronic records, and analyze forensic evidence. The Department's understanding of the facts and circumstances may change as additional evidence is collected and analyzed**


Los Angeles: Los Angeles Police Department's (LAPD) Force Investigation Division is investigating an Officer-Involved Shooting (OIS) that occurred in a Van Nuys neighborhood on Sunday morning.

On October 7, 2018, around 10:50 a.m., Van Nuys Division plain clothes Narcotics Enforcement Detail officers were to the rear of a local motel (known for narcotics sales) on the 13500 block of Sherman Way in the City of Los Angeles.

While at the location, the officers attempted to initiate an investigative stop of three narcotics suspects. As the officers did so, one of the suspects (later identified as Antonio Solis) produced a pistol, which resulted in an Officer-Involved-Shooting.

Solis was struck by gunfire and was transported to a local hospital by the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) paramedics where he received medical treatment and listed in stable condition. Solis was subsequently booked for Possession of a Firearm, section 29800(A)1 of the California Penal Code.

Suspect No. 2, (identified as Allen Riggen) ran from the location and was immediately detained after a short foot chase, when he gave up without incident. Riggen's was also transported by LAFD paramedics to a local hospital, where he was medically treated for minor injuries that he obtained while running from the officers. Riggen's was medically cleared and placed on a Parole Hold, per section 3056 of the California Penal Code.

Suspect No. 3, (identified as Martin Shemata) remained at scene, was interviewed and eventually released.

Solis' 9mm pistol was recovered from the scene and booked as evidence.

LAPD's specialized Force Investigation Division (FID) responded to the scene and began interviewing witnesses and collecting forensic evidence. A representative from the Office of the Inspector General responded and monitored the scene investigation.

The complete investigation will be reviewed by the Chief of Police and the Board of Police Commissioners and the Office of the Inspector General to determine the thoroughness and accuracy of the investigation and whether the use of deadly force complied with LAPD's policies and procedures. Additionally, representatives from the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office who responded to the scene will review the subsequent FID investigation; evidence collected and witness statements to determine if the force used by the officers(s) was reasonable.

Anyone with additional information regarding this incident is urged to call the LAPD at any of the following numbers:
• During business hours at 213-486-5230;
• During non-business hours or on weekends at (877)-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247);
• Anonymously 24-hours a day to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or by texting "LAPD" and your tip to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S); or
• Online at www.lapdonline.org and click on "Anonymous Web Tips.

Severe Hit and Run Traffic Collision

Encino: The Los Angeles Police Department Valley Traffic Division detectives are asking for the public's help in providing any information that would lead to the identification and arrest of the suspect involved in a hit and run, leaving a pedestrian in critical condition.

On October 13th, 2018 around 11:50 p.m., a pedestrian was crossing the street southbound within a controlled marked crosswalk on Ventura Boulevard east of Louise Ave, when she was struck by a vehicle traveling eastbound Ventura Boulevard.

The hit and run vehicle was described by witnesses as a possible silver, 1996 to early 2000, Toyota, 4-Runner.

The hit and run driver did not stop or render aid to the pedestrian as required by law.
 
The Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the scene and transported the female victim to a local hospital in critical condition.
 
Drivers are reminded that if they become involved in a collision, they should pull over and stop as soon as it is safe to do so, notify emergency services, and remain at the scene to identify themselves.

The victim has been identified as a 30-year-old female from Woodland Hills, CA.
 
Anyone with information about this collision is asked to contact Valley Traffic Detective Lisset Fuentes at 818-644-8021 or Detective Dan Menesez at 818-644-8028. During non-business hours, or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org. Tipsters may also visit www.lapdonline.org, and click on "Anonymous Web Tips" under the "Get Involved-Crime Stoppers" menu to submit an online tip. Lastly, tipsters may also download the "P3 Tips" mobile application and select the LA Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.

Missing 22-Year-Old Female

UPDATE
October 15, 2018

Sara Fisher has been located, in good condition, and family members have been notified.



Los Angeles: The family of Sahara Eve Von Fisher and the Los Angeles Police Department's Missing Persons Unit are asking for the public's assistance in locating her.

On October 9, 2018, around 5 p.m., Sahara was last seen near the 9600 block of Stonehurst Avenue, in the City of Sun Valley. She has not been seen or heard from and her family is concerned for her safety.

Sahara Eve Von Fisher is described as a 22-year-old female black with light black hair and hazel eyes. She stands 5 feet 3 inches tall and weighs around 160 pounds.

If you have seen or have any information regarding the whereabouts of Sahara Eve Von Fisher, please contact, Missing persons Unit at 213-996-1800. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org. Tipsters may also visit ww.lapdonline.org, and click on "Anonymous Web Tips" under the "Get Involved-Crime Stoppers" menu to submit an onlinetip. Lastly, tipsters may also download the "P3 Tips" mobile application and select the LA Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.