Death Investigation Apparent Suicide in Hollywood

Los Angeles: A man’s body was found by family members after an apparent suicide last Monday, November 13, 2006, in the Hollywood area of Los Angeles.

Robert Nolan Truax, 82, who lived at 612 North Serrano Avenue, died of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. Investigators found a .38 caliber revolver at the scene.

"The coroner’s investigator tried to make the weapon safe by unloading it, but he had a problem opening the cylinder," said LAPD spokesman Lieutenant Paul Vernon.

Officer Cynthia Torres also tried to open the cylinder, which resulted in a round firing.

"Thankfully, Officer Torres had the weapon pointed in a relatively safe direction, away from any persons," Vernon added. "We will be investigating the circumstances of the incident."

Officer Torres works out of the Hollywood Police Station. Her partner and training officer was outside the home, attending to family members, when the gun went off.

Officer Torres is 30 years old and has been with LAPD for 14 months.