LOS ANGELES, CA – Police are investigating an officer-involved shooting near the Echo Park neighborhood after a man reportedly experiencing a mental health episode was shot and critically wounded by Los Angeles Police Department officers.
According to LAPD, the incident occurred near the 2400 block of Bellevue Avenue after officers responded to a call reporting a man in distress. The department said the man was possibly suffering from a mental health crisis when officers encountered him.
Upon arrival, officers reportedly observed the man holding what they believed to be a firearm. LAPD said the man allegedly pointed the weapon at officers, prompting at least one officer to open fire.
The man was struck during the confrontation and taken to a local hospital, where he remains in critical condition. Police have not released his identity, and there is no word yet on whether the object he was holding has been confirmed to be a firearm.
Authorities have not disclosed how many officers were present during the incident or which officer discharged their weapon. It also remains unclear whether the man was wanted in connection with any prior criminal activity.
The incident is now under investigation by LAPD’s Force Investigation Division, which handles all officer-involved shootings. Per department protocol, the involved officers have been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.
Officer-involved shootings involving individuals experiencing mental health crises have become a recurring concern across the country. Los Angeles city officials have faced increasing pressure to expand the role of mental health professionals in response to such emergencies.
No officers were reported injured in the incident. Police are expected to release additional details as the investigation progresses.
