An armed woman who shot at two victims while sheriff’s deputies attempted to de-escalate a domestic dispute sustained critical injuries after at least one deputy returned fire before sunrise Monday in Cudahy.
East Los Angeles Sheriff’s Station deputies responded around 4:15 a.m. Monday to the 4900 block of Live Oak Street to reports regarding a spousal assault, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
The suspect and two victims were observed by deputies arguing outside the front door of the home upon their arrival.
As the deputies approached the party, the suspect produced a handgun and began shooting at the victims, striking them both, sheriff’s officials said.
One of the victims was a girl.
Sheriff’s officials said both responding deputies acted in an effort to save the victim’s life, after which the deputies fired shots.
Los Angeles County Fire Department personnel arrived at the location and continued life-saving measures initiated by the deputies for the victims, along with the suspect.
The suspect and victims were taken to a hospital for further treatment.
Sheriff’s officials said the suspect sustained critical injuries in the shooting, but was expected to be in stable condition. The extent of the victims’ injuries was not disclosed, but they were also expected to be in stable condition.
No deputies were injured during the shooting.
Another victim had sustained injuries as a result of the initial assault that was reported to deputies. It remains unclear if that victim was also taken to a hospital for treatment.
Investigators located and recovered one firearm from the scene.
The sheriff’s department has notified the office of the Inspector General, which will provide an independent oversight during the investigative process.
After the investigation is concluded, the Critical Incident Review Panel will conduct a preliminary review to determine whether any immediate action is warranted, sheriff’s officials said, noting that every aspect of the shooting will be reviewed by the Sheriff’s Executive Force Review Committee, with input from the Constitutional Policing Advisors provided during the process.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, Justice System Integrity Division, is also expected to conduct a legal analysis to determine whether the shooting was lawful, sheriff’s officials said.
Anyone with information regarding the assault or the shooting was urged to call the Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or visit lascrimestoppers.org.