Shotgun Welding Suspect Stopped by LAPD Officers

August 7, 2008

Los Angeles: Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers investigating a “shooting just occurred” radio call became involved in an officer involved shooting when the suspect pointed a shotgun at them in the West Valley area.

On Tuesday, August 5, 2008 at about 11:00 a.m., West Valley Division officers went to investigate a radio call of a shooting in the 5800 block of Jamieson Avenue. Officers were directed to a residence at the 5800 block of Balcom Avenue where the gunshots had emanated.

Officers Alexis Padron, who has 12 years and 3 months with the department; Dave Soissons, who has 12 years and 4 months with the department; Brian McDonald, a 10-year department veteran; and Jason Duplantis, who has 2 years and 7 months on the department, were among the officers, who went to the scene.

The officers were in the process of setting up a perimeter on the residence when the suspect came out of the house armed with a shotgun. The suspect advanced towards the officers, pointing his shotgun at them. An officer involved shooting occurred and the suspect fell to the ground, dropping the gun.

Officers ordered the suspect to stay on the ground, but the suspect got up and attempted to rearm himself with the shotgun. This resulted in a second officer involved shooting.

The suspect was taken into custody.

Los Angeles Fire Department personnel went to the location and pronounced the suspect dead at the scene. The suspect’s name has not been released until his family has been notified.

A shotgun was recovered at the scene and evidence appears to indicate that the suspect fired on the officers.

No officers were injured as a result of this incident.

Force Investigation Division is handling the investigation.