Los Angeles: On Wednesday, January 29, 2003, at approximately 1:30 p.m., shots were fired in the area of the 9900 block of Topanga Boulevard in Chatsworth. Devonshire Area patrol officers responded and were met by an off-duty Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Deputy.

The Deputy indicated he was walking through a condominium complex and was confronted by two male Caucasians. A brief verbal exchange ensued and one of the suspects produced a handgun and began firing multiple rounds at the Deputy. The Deputy was unable to return fire and sought cover. The two suspects fled on foot through the complex, however responding officers were able to locate and detain the non-shooter. A perimeter was established and a lengthy foot search was initiated with canine assistance. Ultimately, it was determined the shooter had eluded capture, and he remains at large.

The detained suspect was subsequently arrested on an unrelated charge of Criminal Threats, and booked at Devonshire Station. He was a current resident within the impacted housing complex. His suspected involvement in the assault upon the off-duty Sheriff’s Deputy remains under investigation, as do efforts to identify the outstanding suspect. The Deputy was unharmed by the gunfire. The motive for the armed assault has not been determined.

The outstanding suspect is described as a male Caucasian, 5’9", 180 lbs., black hair, brown eyes, and in his thirties.

Anyone with information should contact the Devonshire Area Homicide Unit at 818-756-8291. On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at the Detective Information Desk, 1-877-LAWFULL,
1-877-529-3855.

This press release was prepared by Public Information Officer Jason Lee, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.