Los Angeles: On April 25, 2001, at approximately 11:07 PM, Metropolitan Division Officers Richard Ludwig, 17 years with the Department, and John Jenal, 14 years with the Department were assigned to crime suppression duties in 77^th Street Area. As Officer Jenal drove their dual-purpose police vehicle westbound on West 49^th Street from Western Avenue, the officers observed the suspect, a male Black, 30-35 years of age, and a female Black standing in the middle of the street between Western Avenue and St. Andrews Place. As the police vehicle continued westbound, the suspects walked to a vehicle parked at the south curb. Officer Ludwig observed a stainless steel revolver in the suspect's hand, communicated his observation to Officer Jenal and exited the police vehicle. As the officers approached the suspect ran southeast, then south through a residential area.

The officers pursed the suspect to the 1700 block of West 49^th Street. At that location, the suspect pointed his revolver at Officer Ludwig. In fear for his life, Officer Ludwig fired multiple rounds, wounding and incapacitating the suspect. The suspect dropped a stainless steel, .357 magnum revolver at the scene. The revolver was recovered and found to be loaded with six live rounds. The suspect was transported to a local hospital where he was admitted and listed in critical condition. The officers involved in the shooting were not injured.

Robbery-Homicide Division Detectives are investigating the incident, the suspect has not yet been identified. For further information regarding this press release, please call Media Relations at 213-485-3586.