Granada Hills - On Thursday, June 28, 2001, at approximately 9:55 p.m., an off duty , 13 year veteran, Los Angeles Police Department sergeant, assigned to the Hollywood Community Police Station, was dining at the "Hot Chile" Mexican Food Restaurant, located at 11061 Balboa Boulevard in Granada Hills. While he was seated in the restaurant, two male Hispanics entered the business and approached the service counter where the owner of the restaurant was located. One of the suspects pointed a handgun at the owner and demanded money. The off-duty sergeant, believing that the owner was about to be shot, drew his service pistol, identified himself as a police officer and ordered the suspect to drop his gun. The suspect failed to comply and pointed his handgun at the sergeant. In defense of his life, the sergeant fired several rounds at the suspect, possibly wounding him. Both suspects fled the restaurant through the rear door. On duty personnel arrived and conducted a search of the area but were unable to locate either suspect.

The suspects are described as male Hispanics, 18 to 22 years of age, brown hair, brown eyes, 5’ 8" to 5’ 10". At this time, the suspects remain unidentified and are outstanding. If the public has any knowledge of either suspect they are encouraged to call Robbery Homicide Division at 213-485-2129 or after hours, the Department Command Post at 213-485-2504.

The investigation is ongoing and is being conducted jointly by the Officer Involved shooting Section, Critical Incident Investigation Division and Homicide Special Section, Robbery Homicide Division.

For further information regarding this incident contact Media Relations Section at 213-485-3586. This press release was prepared by Sergeant John Pasquariello, Media Relations Section.