LOS ANGELES, CA – An intense manhunt is underway in downtown Los Angeles as police search for a suspect who opened fire at a bustling shopping center, injuring two security guards. The incident unfolded late Tuesday night at the popular State and 7th Shopping Center, leaving one guard in critical condition.
Authorities responded swiftly to reports of a shooting around 9 p.m. Upon arrival, officers discovered two male security guards suffering from gunshot wounds. Both men were immediately transported to a nearby hospital, where one remains in critical condition while the other is stable.
Witnesses reported the suspect had been attempting to shoplift before being confronted by the guards. Eyewitness accounts describe the suspect as a man in his 20s or 30s, wearing a black jacket, gray pants, and carrying a gray backpack and scarf. After the shooting, the suspect fled the scene, prompting an extensive search by the Los Angeles Police Department.
Investigators worked through the night, gathering surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses to piece together the events leading up to the shooting. Despite these efforts, no arrests have been made, and the suspect remains at large.
The shopping center, which houses several major retailers including Target and Zara, was a scene of chaos as patrons scrambled for safety. Shoppers expressed concern over the incident, questioning the adequacy of security measures in place at the center.
In response to the shooting, officials are evaluating whether additional security measures are necessary to ensure the safety of shoppers and staff. The incident has sparked a broader conversation about security in public spaces across Los Angeles.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the suspect or the incident to come forward as the investigation continues. Community members are on edge, hoping for a swift resolution to the case as police intensify their search.
The shooting highlights ongoing challenges in addressing crime in urban areas, raising questions about how cities can better protect their citizens while ensuring justice is served.