Suspect Attempts Murder of a Los Angeles Public Safety Officer

LOS ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
PRESS RELEASE
Wednesday, January 5, 2000
Hollenbeck CRASH Detectives are investigating the attempt murder of a Los Angeles Public Safety Officer, which occurred on Monday, January 4, 2000 at approximately 10:30 p.m.

Officer Richard Bentley #42246, was on duty in his marked police vehicle stopped at the intersection of Marengo Street and Mission Road. Officer Bentley observed a gray Honda Accord commit a traffic violation and attempted to conduct a traffic stop. The suspect refused to stop for the officer, leaned out of the vehicle and fired a handgun at the officer.

The suspect then entered the Interstate 5 Freeway with the officer following. The suspect exited the freeway a short distance away where he collided with a utility pole. He then exited his vehicle, pointed his handgun and fired another round at the officer. Officer Bentley returned fire striking the suspect in the leg. The suspect was taken into custody without any further incident.and transported to Los Angeles County USC Medical Center, Los Angeles County Jail Ward, where he was treated for his injuries.

The suspect has been identified as Carlos James Salas, a 29-year-old male Hispanic gang member who is currently on parole.

Hollenbeck Crash Detectives Jaramillo and Fungaroli are conducting the investigation. Any inquiries should be directed to Media Relations Section at 213-485-3586.

For Release 2:40 pm PST
January 5, 2000