Four individuals were detained after a confrontation escalated outside the Walt Disney Concert Hall in downtown Los Angeles, according to officials. The Los Angeles Police Department was called to the scene on the 100 block of South Grand Avenue, where witnesses reported hearing gunshots around 5 p.m., as KTLA reported. The area was hosting a graduation event for over 100 L.A. County high school students, which included 29 probationary detainees.
⚠️Traffic Advisory⚠️ Grand St and Hope St remain closed between 1st and 2nd St due to an active investigation. There are no reported injuries at this time. pic.twitter.com/yDhnFK4KIb
— LAPD Central Division (@LAPDCentral) June 14, 2024
The incident began during the ceremony when assaulting a teen graduate, an individual jumped over a second-story balcony. The disturbance continued outside where, ABC7 states, a brawl involving several people then ensued, prompting the closure of nearby streets. Despite the chaos and discovery of bullet shell casings at the scene, no injuries were reported among law enforcement or attendees of the ceremony.
The graduation, hosted by the L.A. County Office of Education and the L.A. County Probation Department, was intended to honor graduates from juvenile court schools and alternative schools. Video footage captured by AIR7 showed a significant police presence focusing on the area between Grand and 2nd streets during their investigation following the incident.
Following the violent outburst, a statement from the Probation Department emphasized that "all detained probation graduates and Los Angeles County Office of Education graduates are uninjured, safe, and secure." Throughout the area, several bullet shell casings were discovered, adding to the evidence under investigation. The Probation Department, as per the County of Los Angeles, California, communicated their commitment to working with law enforcement partners to "celebrate the accomplishments of our youth while working towards creating a safer community."
The Los Angeles Police Department continues to investigate the incident, gathering information and urging anyone with knowledge to come forward. The anonymous LAPD tip line is available for those who may have insights into the events that transpired. The number provided by authorities is 1-877-527-3247 for any individuals wishing to assist in the case, as detailed by KTLA.
