Felony child abuse suspect wounded by police gunfire in Torrance

Are you or someone you know a recent survivor of sexual assault? Help is available. Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) provides a 24/7 national sexual assault hotline, which can be reached at 1-800-656-4673.

TORRANCE, Calif. – A suspect was recovering at a local hospital after investigators said he was shot and wounded by police gunfire after allegedly shooting at officers. 

Officials said the shooting unfolded as Los Angeles Police Department officers were serving a felony child abuse search warrant connected to a sexual assault investigation.

Just after 3 a.m. Thursday, an officer called for help on the radio while at a home on Reynolds Drive, near Torrance Boulevard and Anza Avenue. Authorities said the LAPD’s Gang and Narcotics Division was assisting the department’s Juvenile Division with the arrest of a sexual assault suspect. As officers approached the home, shots were fired at police, and gunfire was exchanged between the officers and the suspect. 

"We’re lucky this resulted in a minor injury of an officer," said LAPD Detective Meghan Aguilar.  "Sometimes, we’re not that fortunate."

The LAPD said they know serving warrants like these can be very dangerous.

"They can change at any time, said Aguilar. "A lot of people know they're going to be going back to jail… sometimes we know they're armed, sometimes we don't."

An investigation was underway after a suspect was struck by police gunfire on the morning of April 18, 2024.

The suspect, identified only as a 44-year-old man, suffered a graze wound. He was taken to the hospital in stable condition.

Neighbors said they woke up around 4 a.m. to the sound of gunfire.

"I heard a couple of gunshots," said Sandra Sharp, a neighbor.  "I take care of my nephew who's going to be 3 in June. If [the allegations are true] this close to our house, that’s awfully scary."

The LAPD initially said the case was a sexual assault investigation, but later clarified it was a felony child abuse case. They noted that sexual assault can legally fall under felony child abuse, but due to the age of the victim, no further details could be provided. 

Nearby residents described the area as typically quiet and safe. They said they never noticed anything unusual.

"It’s just a very odd situation," said neighbor Martin Lombardi.  "They roll up the sidewalks here pretty early.  It’s dead quiet.  Then, it starts up again when people go to work."

The area of Torrance Boulevard and Anza, a major intersection in the heart of Torrance, was closed more than 13 hours Thursday as a result of the shooting and police investigation. 

"No area is safe anymore including Torrance," said another neighbor Mary Davis. "It’s very close to home. Especially, with the shooting. Then, knowing there was a felon in the neighborhood, it’s scary."

Authorities were unable to say anything publicly relating to the suspect.

The investigation is active and ongoing.