Traffic Stop Erupts into Gunfire

 
Los Angeles: On Thursday, December 27, 2001, at approximately 10:40 p.m., two Los Angeles Police Department Valley Traffic Division officers were conducting a traffic stop of a suspected DUI suspect when the driver of the detained vehicle opened fire upon the LAPD motorcycle officers.
Stopping the early model sport utility vehicle at the intersection of San Fernando Road and Terra Bella Street, the officers alighted from their motorcycles as the gunman, seated inside the vehicle, leaned out the driver’s window and began shooting at them. As the .45 semi-automatic rounds rang out, the officers were sent running for cover and protection. Neither of the two law enforcement officials returned fire or were seriously injured during the attack. The suspect, identified as a male with a shaved head, fled off in a primer colored red truck which was later found abandoned two blocks from the shooting scene. A search for the suspect was unsuccessful and the weapon used remains outstanding.
Anyone with additional information regarding this crime should contact Los Angeles Police Department, Homicide Special Section 213-485-2129. On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at Detective Information Desk, or 1-877-LAWFULL, 1-877-529-3855.
This press release was prepared by Public Information Officer Jack Richter, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.