MISSION HILLS, CA – A peaceful Wednesday afternoon turned into chaos at a local barbershop when a masked assailant opened fire, leaving a young barber critically injured. The shooting occurred at Prodigy Barbershop on Devonshire Street, a bustling area within a shopping complex, where the suspect’s getaway was partially captured on surveillance cameras.
Anthony Road, the victim, was attending to a client when the gunman shot through the shop’s front door. The suspect then fled the scene on an electric scooter. Road’s mother, Michelle, shared that her son is now confined to a hospital bed, suffering from severe nerve damage. “He can’t walk and barely feels anything below his waist,” she said, her voice filled with concern. “The bullet damaged nerves connected to his spine, and it’s uncertain when or if he will walk again.”
The surveillance footage reveals the shocking nature of the attack, which occurred in broad daylight. Despite the presence of numerous witnesses, the shooter remains unidentified. Authorities believe the incident to be random, as Road reportedly did not know his attacker. Michelle described the terrifying moment when her son, with his back to the door, was struck by the bullet. She emphasized the impact on his lower body, which now has limited movement.
Witnesses and the police are urging the public to come forward with any information that might lead to the arrest of the suspect. The community is on edge, as the shooter could still be in the area. Michelle suspects that the attacker might be familiar with Mission Hills, noting that he seemed to know his way around as he sped off toward the nearby 405 Freeway.
In the aftermath of the shooting, a GoFundMe page has been set up to assist with Anthony’s mounting medical expenses and daily needs. As the primary breadwinner for his family, his inability to work has added financial strain to an already dire situation. The community is rallying to support Anthony and his family, hoping for his recovery and the swift apprehension of the perpetrator.
The police continue to investigate the case, appealing to anyone with information to contact them. Meanwhile, the barbershop remains closed, its future uncertain as its staff and customers grapple with the trauma of the incident.