Van Nuys Man Threatening Police with Metal Bar, Fatally Shot
Los Angeles: A Van Nuys man who lunged towards an officer with a metal bar was shot after police responded to a kidnap call shortly after 7:00 p.m. The man was taken to a local hospital where he later died.
The incident happened Monday evening, April 9, 2007 at a residence located in the 17600 block of Runnymeade Street. An unidentified caller met with police outside the location and told them that a woman was being held inside against her will by her estrange husband.
Officers door-knocked the residence and tried to reason with the suspect, John Goudeaux, 45, to allow them to enter and check on the woman's safety, but Goudeaux refused.
Concerned that the victim was in danger, officers were able to force their way inside. Once inside, the man, who was nude, armed himself with a 3-foot metal bar, threatening the officers.
After officers repeatedly ordered the man to drop the metal bar, Goudeaux advanced towards Officer Timothy Hope, 27. Officer Hope fired, striking the man. Goudeaux was taken to Holy Cross Hospital where he later died.
Officer Hope has nearly three and half years with the Department. He is assigned to the Van Nuys Police Station.
LAPD's Force Investigation Unit is handling the investigation.
van nuys community police station 
