California prosecutors announced they will conduct an independent investigation into a fatal police shooting involving the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) near Ardmore Avenue and 11th Street in Koreatown. The incident occurred around 10 p.m. on June 3 and involved officers from the Olympic Division, which has previously faced scrutiny over officer-involved shootings (OIS).
The California Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed on June 4 that the case qualifies for a probe under AB 1506, a state law mandating investigations when an unarmed civilian is killed by law enforcement. Although the victim in this case was reportedly armed with a handgun, the DOJ stated it would still move forward with a full review of the use of force.
According to the DOJ, the shooting occurred after LAPD officers responded to the scene and fired on a suspect who was holding a firearm. The suspect was transported to a hospital, where they were later pronounced dead. The name of the officer involved has not been released.
Olympic Division Under Renewed Scrutiny
This case adds to ongoing scrutiny of the Olympic Division, where Officer Andres Lopez remains on duty after fatally shooting Yang Yong (age 40 at the time) in May 2023. Lopez stated that Yang, who was reportedly dealing with mental health issues, was holding a weapon when he opened fire. The shooting occurred after Yang allegedly requested mental health assistance.
The new investigation follows a major legal decision issued on June 2 by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, which ruled that LAPD officers are not entitled to qualified immunity if they violate the Fourth Amendment during unreasonable searches or arrests. That decision may shape how future civil cases involving police shootings are handled.
DOJ Oversight and Broader Impact
The California Police Shooting Investigation Team is leading the inquiry. Once complete, the Special Prosecutions Section will conduct an independent review of the findings.
Under AB 1506, the DOJ may intervene when a person killed by police was unarmed. While it remains unclear whether this case meets that exact threshold, state prosecutors have proceeded with an investigation.
The DOJ is also accepting complaints regarding law enforcement misconduct through its website at oag.ca.gov/police-complaints.
Depending on the findings, the case may also bring renewed attention to the 2023 Yang Yong shooting, further highlighting concerns about police use of force and accountability in Los Angeles.
BY HYOUNGJAE KIM [kim.ian@koreadaily.com]
