Los Angeles police are actively searching for a gunman responsible for the shooting of three teenagers on a Sun Valley street on Friday evening. According to KTLA, the incident occurred at an apartment complex near Vineland Avenue and Arminta Street at approximately 5:40 p.m. All three victims, boys ranging from 16 to 18 years old, were rushed to the hospital after reportedly being shot once in the leg, but were described as conscious and breathing.
Witnesses reported the suspect was an unknown male dressed in all black, who stepped out of an SUV, proceeded to quickly fire at the victims, and then got back into the vehicle before speeding away. The suspect's car was last seen heading eastbound on Arminta Street toward Vineland Avenue. The investigation has been handed over to the LAPD's Foothill Division Gang Unit, suggesting an avenue they are pursuing. However, the motive for the violence has not been clarified yet.
The Los Angeles Police Department has provided some details about the suspect's getaway car, describing it as a silver Lexus RX SUV. They also note that the individual may be armed with a handgun. In describing the urgency of the situation, an LAPD spokesperson stated to the Los Angeles Times, "The shooter, described as a man in black clothing, was last seen fleeing eastbound on Arminta Street toward Vineland Avenue."
Additional context was provided by FOX LA, which reported police suspect the shooting to be gang-related, possibly. While the shooter remains at large, local authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation. The area near the shooting, bustling with a local carnival at the time, was promptly closed off for investigation. Despite the proximity of the festivities, no bystanders were unfortunately injured during the incident.
Anyone with information about the incident or the whereabouts of the suspected shooter is encouraged to reach out to the LAPD. As residents and families grapple with this unexpected violence, the community seeks answers and justice for the victims involved. The teenagers, thankfully, are in fair condition following the ordeal.
