Mission Division In-Custody Death NRF035-20ne

**The following information is based on a preliminary and ongoing investigation that 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**

Arleta: The Los Angeles Police Department’s (LAPD) Force Investigation Division is investigating an In-Custody Death involving a burglary suspect.

On August 14, 2020, around 6:00 p.m., Mission Area patrol officers responded to a report of a burglary suspect at the 13500 block of Wingo Street.

The suspect removed a window screen from the residence and entered a garage of another residence. The suspect was also observed by several residents trespassing on their property as he appeared to be talking to himself.

An LAPD Air Unit responded and was able to follow the suspect as he attempted to flee. The Air Unit directed the officers to the suspect’s location at the 13400 block of Wingo Street. The suspect then scaled a chain-link fence and climbed down into the reservoir east of that location. Several officers followed the suspect into the reservoir and attempted to take him into custody. The suspect resisted being handcuffed and a use of force occurred involving applications of firm grip, bodyweight, and several TASER activations.

Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) paramedics were called and upon arrival initiated medical treatment. Shortly thereafter, the suspect became unresponsive resulting in cardiac arrest. The suspect was pronounced dead several minutes later by LAFD at scene.

The Los Angeles County Coroner’s office was notified and transported the suspect to the Los Angeles County Morgue pending a post-mortem examination.

No officers were injured during the incident.

Force Investigation Division is handling the administrative investigation and Mission Area Detectives will be handling the potential criminal acts committed by the suspect.

Family Liaison Unit responded to the scene and notified the Mayor’s Crisis Response.