On Tuesday, December 23, 2025, Burbank police were called to a shooting incident in the city’s downtown area. The call was made just before 1:30 p.m. as officers were dispatched to a commercial building located in the 1200 block of West Magnolia Boulevard. The scene quickly became chaotic when a suspect, believed to be involved in a recent theft of a firearm, was discovered running toward the officers while holding a gun. The confrontation escalated rapidly, leading to an officer-involved shooting that left the suspect in critical condition.
Incident at West Magnolia Boulevard
According to the Burbank Police Department, the suspect had been previously identified as the individual who stole a firearm from the same establishment earlier that afternoon. When officers arrived on the scene, they encountered the suspect in motion, armed with a handgun, and attempting to flee the premises. The department’s statement notes that the suspect was running when officers approached, and that his possession of a weapon contributed to the tense atmosphere. Officers quickly established a perimeter and attempted to detain the suspect, but the suspect’s aggressive behavior escalated the situation.
Confrontation and Shooting
The officers’ attempts to subdue the suspect were met with resistance, and the suspect’s continued attempts to escape prompted the officers to fire their weapons. The Burbank Police Department released a statement that the suspect’s actions directly led to the officer-involved shooting. The department emphasized that the shooting was a defensive response to a perceived threat from the suspect, who was armed and actively running toward the officers. The exchange of gunfire resulted in the suspect sustaining a gunshot wound, after which he was immediately transported to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment.
Police Statement
In its official statement, the department quoted, “During the encounter, the suspect’s actions precipitated an officer-involved shooting,” and added that the suspect was hospitalized in critical condition. The statement clarified that no officers were injured during the incident.
Hospitalization
The suspect was rushed to a local medical facility immediately after the shooting. Hospital staff placed the suspect in critical condition, and emergency responders monitored his vital signs throughout the transport. The Burbank Police Department has not yet released any further details regarding the suspect’s identity or the exact nature of his injuries. The department is working with hospital officials to provide updates as the situation evolves.
No Officer Injuries
The Burbank Police Department confirmed that none of its officers sustained injuries during the confrontation. All officers involved returned to duty after completing their post-incident debriefings.
Street Closure
In response to the shooting, the Burbank Police Department closed nearby streets to allow investigators to secure the area and gather evidence. The closure remains in effect as the investigation continues, and traffic detours have been posted by city officials to guide motorists.
Identity Not Released
At this time, the Burbank Police Department has not released the suspect’s name or any identifying details. The department has urged the public to remain patient as the investigation proceeds.
Investigation Ongoing
The department’s internal affairs division is leading the investigation, reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and collecting forensic evidence from the scene. Officers are coordinating with local hospitals and other law enforcement agencies to determine the suspect’s motive and the circumstances that led to the shooting. Updates will be released as new information becomes available.
Community Response
Residents in the surrounding area have expressed concern about safety following the shooting. City officials have reassured the public that the police are taking all necessary precautions to prevent further incidents and maintain order in the neighborhood.
Police Department Actions
The Burbank Police Department has issued a statement urging anyone with information about the suspect or the incident to come forward. Officers are actively canvassing the area and speaking with business owners to gather additional details. The department is also reviewing all available video footage to identify the suspect’s movements and any potential witnesses.
Summary
The shooting in Burbank highlights the dangers law enforcement officers face when confronting armed suspects. While the suspect remains hospitalized in critical condition, the investigation continues, and the community awaits further updates from the police department and local authorities.
Timeline of the Incident
The incident unfolded over a span of approximately thirty minutes. The first police call was received just before 1:30 p.m., prompting officers to mobilize to the 1200 block of West Magnolia Boulevard. Upon arrival, officers found the suspect in motion, armed, and attempting to flee. The confrontation escalated within minutes, leading to the exchange of gunfire. After the suspect was shot, officers secured the area and called for medical assistance before transporting the suspect to the hospital.
Police Protocol
Burbank Police officers followed standard operating procedures during the incident. Upon encountering an armed suspect, officers established a perimeter, attempted to negotiate, and used non-lethal options before resorting to firearms. When the suspect’s behavior escalated and he continued to run toward the officers, the department’s protocol authorized the use of force to neutralize the threat. Officers documented the encounter and reported the incident immediately after the shooting.
Hospital Care
Emergency medical services transported the suspect to a nearby hospital where physicians assessed his condition. The suspect was placed in critical condition following the gunshot wound. Medical personnel monitored his vital signs and administered emergency treatment, including blood transfusions and advanced life support. The Burbank Police Department is coordinating with the hospital to receive updates on the suspect’s status as treatment continues.
Community Impact
The shooting has sparked heightened anxiety among residents and business owners in the West Magnolia area. Local businesses have reported increased foot traffic as people seek information, while some have requested additional police presence. City officials have organized community meetings to address concerns and provide updates on the investigation. The police department has reaffirmed its commitment to public safety and transparency throughout the process.
Next Steps
The Burbank Police Department has announced that the investigation will continue until the suspect’s identity and motive are determined. Officers are reviewing all available evidence, including video footage, forensic data, and witness statements. The department has requested that anyone with information contact the Burbank Police Department’s non-emergency line. Authorities will provide further updates as the investigation progresses and new findings emerge.
