In a tragic incident on Thursday, police in Hollywood shot and killed a 38-year-old man after he charged at officers with a large kitchen knife.
The Incident
Officers were dispatched to the 1400 block of North Bronson Avenue in response to a call reporting an armed man in crisis. The caller described a man who threatened to end his own life, claimed to be speaking to ghosts, and warned that he would kill anyone who approached his front door. The situation was identified as a potential self-harm and public safety risk.
Police Response
When the Los Angeles Police Department arrived, they entered the apartment building and approached the door of the suspect’s unit. The suspect could be heard yelling from inside. According to LAPD statements, he opened the door, exited the apartment, and advanced toward the officers wielding a large kitchen knife. As the suspect charged, officers fired a 40-mm less-lethal round and a gunshot. The officer-involved shooting (OIS) and the less-lethal round were discharged nearly simultaneously.
Outcome
The suspect, identified as Juan Guerrero Rojo, 38, was struck by gunfire. He was taken into custody and then transported by paramedics to a hospital. He later died from his injuries. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office confirmed the identity of the deceased. No officers or bystanders were injured during the incident.
Evidence
Detectives recovered the kitchen knife at the scene and secured it as evidence. The knife was booked into the evidence system for further investigation.
Key Takeaways
- A 38-year-old man in Hollywood was shot and killed after charging at police with a kitchen knife.
- The incident followed a call describing the suspect’s threats of self-harm and claims of speaking to ghosts.
- Officers responded with a 40-mm less-lethal round and a gunshot, resulting in the suspect’s death.
- No officers or bystanders were injured, and the knife was recovered as evidence.
The event underscores the challenges law enforcement faces when responding to individuals in crisis who are armed and potentially dangerous. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office and police have identified the suspect, and the investigation continues to determine the circumstances that led to this fatal encounter.
