At a Glance
- A suspected drug-deal argument turned deadly near Sherman Way and Mason Avenue.
- One person was killed, another hospitalized after an exchange of gunfire.
- The shooting happened around 4 p.m., according to the LAPD.
- Why it matters: The incident underscores ongoing violence tied to narcotics activity in the San Fernando Valley neighborhood.
Gunfire broke out in Winnetka on Monday afternoon, leaving one person dead and another injured after what police described as a confrontation linked to a suspected drug deal.
The Scene
Officers arrived near Sherman Way and Mason Avenue shortly after 4 p.m. following reports of shots fired. According to the Los Angeles Police Department, the shooting began after two individuals became embroiled in an altercation authorities believe was connected to narcotics.
Both victims were rushed to a nearby hospital. One of them later died from injuries sustained in the exchange, while the second remained under medical care. Investigators have not yet released the name of the deceased.
What We Know
- Time of incident: About 4 p.m.
- Location: Sherman Way and Mason Avenue, Winnetka
- Circumstance: Argument during suspected drug transaction
- Casualties: One fatality, one injury
- Status: Investigation ongoing
Community Response
The intersection, lined with small businesses and apartment complexes, was closed for several hours while forensic teams collected evidence. Residents gathered behind yellow crime-scene tape, watching detectives canvass the block for surveillance footage and witnesses.
A clerk at a nearby convenience store told News Of Losangeles he heard multiple gunshots and ducked behind the counter. “It happened so fast,” he said, requesting anonymity. “We just tried to stay safe until police came.”
Police Statement
“At least one person was dead and another was injured after gunfire erupted in Winnetka,” the LAPD confirmed in a brief statement released Monday evening. Investigators declined to specify how many shots were fired or whether any suspects have been identified.
Homicide detectives have assumed the investigation and are asking anyone with information to contact the LAPD tip line.
Ongoing Investigation
The identity of the surviving victim has not been released, and police have not indicated whether any weapons were recovered at the scene. No arrests had been announced as of Monday night.
Authorities urged drivers and pedestrians to avoid the area while evidence markers dotted the pavement around the intersection. Amanda S. Bennett reported that the scene remained active well into the evening, with patrol vehicles blocking side streets.
“This is a developing story,” police reiterated, promising additional updates as information becomes available.
Key Takeaways
- A suspected drug transaction escalated to gunfire in broad daylight.
- One person died; a second is recovering in hospital.
- The LAPD has not named any suspects or released victim identities.
- The intersection of Sherman Way and Mason Avenue was closed for hours.
- Anyone with information is asked to contact homicide detectives immediately.
