The Los Angeles Police Department’s Force Investigation Division is investigating an officer-involved shooting (OIS) that occurred when a man opened fire with a .50-caliber projectile launcher that had the appearance of a handgun. The police department released video of the exchange and provided details.
Patrol officers, on Feb. 20, responded to the report of an assault with a deadly weapon at an apartment complex. Upon arrival, the officers spoke with a woman who had contacted 911 and said a male neighbor had pointed a gun at her.
At this point, the man opened his door, pointed what appeared to be a gun at officers, and fired. An officer returned fire at the suspected gunman, who was not struck.
He immediately retreated back into his apartment as the officer fired. Officers broadcast a “shots fired, officer needs help” call and additional officers responded to the scene. After a brief standoff, police contacted the man by telephone he was taken into custody without further incident.
Police discovered what had appeared to be a handgun was a weapon capable of firing .50 caliber rubber balls. A jar of .50 caliber rubber balls was recovered at the scene. Additionally, a Smith & Wesson 9mm semi-automatic handgun was also recovered from the man’s apartment.
No officers were injured in the incident.
