Officer-Involved Shooting Investigation NRF017-26eo

April 9, 2026

Update

On Thursday, April 9, 2026, the Chief of Police authorized the release of the officers names who were involved in an Officer Involved Shooting, that occurred Friday, April 3, 2026, outside city-limits, 77th Street Area Officer(s) involved: Police Officer II Antonio Cortina, Serial No. 45184 and Police Officer II Kevin Santizo, Serial No. 43780.

April 3, 2026

Officer-Involved Shooting Investigation

**The following information is based on a preliminary and ongoing investigation, which
continues to evolve as investigators interview witnesses, review physical and electronic
records, and analyze forensic evidence. The Department’s understanding of the facts and
circumstances may change as additional evidence is collected and analyzed**

Los Angeles: On April 3, 2026, at around 0108 am, uniformed officers assigned to 77th Street Patrol Division responded to a radio call of an Assault with a Deadly Weapon at a gas station located near the 11500 block of South Vermont Avenue in the Southeast Area.

The call indicated that a shooting had occurred and that a victim had been struck by gunfire. The suspect was described as a 45-year-old male Hispanic wearing a black sweater and black pants, last seen fleeing westbound on Imperial Highway. While canvassing the area for the suspect, 77th Street Patrol Division officers observed a male Hispanic, later identified as Eliar Real Hernandez, who matched the broadcast description.

Hernandez was walking on the sidewalk while holding a handgun pointed at his head. One of the officers issued multiple verbal commands in an effort to gain compliance; however, Hernandez failed to comply and subsequently turned toward the officers, resulting in an Officer-Involved Shooting (OIS). Hernandez was struck by gunfire and taken into custody without further incident.

Officers immediately rendered medical aid and requested the response of the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD). Upon arrival, LAFD personnel assessed Hernandez and pronounced him deceased at the scene. The investigation determined that Hernandez was in possession of a loaded 9-millimeter ghost gun, which was recovered at the scene and booked as evidence. No officers or additional community members were injured during the incident. Personnel from Force Investigation Division (FID) responded to the scene and assumed investigative responsibility.