A shooting in downtown Los Angeles early Sunday morning left two people wounded, including one who remains in critical condition, after a gunman allegedly opened fire into a large crowd before fleeing the area, according to police.
The incident occurred shortly after 1:30 a.m. near the intersection of Olympic Boulevard and Main Street, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) said.
Shooting Followed Argument Near Alley Gathering
Investigators said a large group of people had gathered in a rear alley near the intersection when a verbal confrontation broke out. During the dispute, a man reportedly pulled out a handgun and fired multiple shots into the crowd.
Authorities believe the gunfire stemmed from the argument, though the exact circumstances leading up to the confrontation remain under investigation.
Two Victims Hospitalized
Emergency responders transported two gunshot victims to a nearby hospital.
Police said one victim suffered life-threatening injuries and was listed in critical condition, while the second victim was reported to be in stable condition.
Initial reports from the scene suggested that four people had been shot. However, after further investigation, detectives confirmed that only two individuals had actually been struck by gunfire.
Suspect Escaped on Foot
According to the LAPD, the suspected shooter is believed to be a man in his 30s. After opening fire, he fled the area on foot before officers arrived.
As of the latest update, no arrests have been made, and investigators continue searching for the suspect.
Police have not released additional identifying information or a possible motive beyond the reported altercation.
Investigation Hampered by Uncooperative Witnesses
Authorities said the investigation has been complicated by a lack of cooperation from people who were present during the shooting.
According to an LAPD spokesperson, several witnesses—including the victim who was hospitalized in stable condition—have not been cooperating with investigators.
Detectives are continuing to review evidence from the scene and are asking anyone with information about the shooting or the suspect to contact the Los Angeles Police Department.
Investigation Continues
The shooting remains under active investigation as detectives work to determine what led to the violence and identify the suspect responsible.
Police are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information that could assist investigators to come forward as efforts continue to locate the gunman.