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LOS ANGELES, CA — A burglary suspect was shot and killed by a security guard early Monday morning after he crashed his car into a West Los Angeles dispensary in what appeared to be a break-in attempt. Authorities are investigating whether a second suspect was involved.
As reported by Fox 11, the incident occurred at 3:12 a.m. at ERBA Markets’ West LA dispensary, located at the intersection of Pico Boulevard and Centinela Avenue. According to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), a suspect wearing a ski mask deliberately drove a Hyundai sedan through the glass entrance of the dispensary. A security guard, who was stationed inside, saw the suspect wearing a ski mask and believed a robbery was taking place, prompting him to fire at the suspect, striking him at least once.
LAPD officers arrived shortly after and took the wounded suspect into custody. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries. Authorities have not yet released his identity, but reports indicate he was approximately 16 years old.
A witness at the scene reported seeing a second suspect fleeing after the shooting. Investigators believe this individual may have dropped evidence while running away. As of now, no additional arrests have been made, and authorities are reviewing witness statements to determine if another suspect is being sought.
At this time, the security guard is not facing any charges. The intersection of Pico and Centinela remained closed for several hours as detectives processed the scene.
Self-Defense and Legal Considerations
This case raises important self-defense legal considerations, particularly regarding the use of a vehicle as a weapon. Driving a car through a building’s entrance can be considered an act of deadly force, as a vehicle used in this manner poses a serious risk of death or great bodily harm to anyone inside. Given this, the security guard likely had legal justification to use deadly force in self-defense, believing the suspect’s actions presented an immediate threat.
However, as with any defensive shooting, the full legal picture will depend on the investigation’s findings. Authorities will review evidence, including surveillance footage and witness statements, to determine whether the guard’s response was within the bounds of California’s self-defense laws.
For armed citizens and security personnel, this incident underscores the importance of understanding self-defense laws and recognizing what constitutes an imminent threat. Proper training in assessing threats and making legally sound decisions under pressure is essential for those who carry for protection.
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