A routine medical call in Hollywood turned tense Sunday night when fire crews arrived at an apartment building on the 7200 block of Franklin Avenue and encountered a man who barricaded himself inside, authorities said. The Los Angeles Fire Department said the man, 37, was eventually taken into custody by police and transported to a nearby hospital.
What Happened
According to the Los Angeles Fire Department, engines and medics were dispatched to the address on a reported medical call. When the situation escalated, firefighters requested Los Angeles Police Department backup at about 8:15 p.m.
By around 8:34 p.m., video from the scene showed the man barricaded inside an apartment as officers moved in on the unit. A firearm was recovered before the suspect was taken into custody. He was then transported to a nearby hospital at roughly 9:45 p.m., as reported by KTLA.
Why Crews Call for Police Backup
Firefighters are trained to call in law enforcement when a scene appears unsafe for crews, patients or bystanders. That can include reports of weapons, erratic behavior or any sign that responders might be walking into more than a basic medical call.
The Los Angeles Fire Department, like many agencies, relies on close coordination with police when a call involves potential violence. Crews will hold back and wait for officers to secure the area before beginning medical treatment if there is any question about safety. More information about the department and its operations is available from the Los Angeles Fire Department.
Police Response and Next Steps
The Los Angeles Police Department recovered a gun at the scene and placed the 37-year-old under arrest before he was taken to the hospital, according to KTLA. The case is being investigated by the Hollywood Division, and authorities have not released additional details about the man, the original medical call or potential charges.
