1 officer killed, another hospitalized in Baldwin Park shooting

One officer was killed and another was hospitalized following a shootout with a suspect in Baldwin Park Saturday night.

Police received calls about a man who was reportedly shooting a rifle in a neighborhood on the 4200 block of Filhurst Avenue around 7:21 p.m.

“When officers arrived, they were met by gunfire,” said Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna at a Saturday night press conference.

Both officers were rushed to the USC Medical Center for treatment. One officer was airlifted and the other was transported by ambulance, according to the L.A. County Fire Department.

LASD later confirmed that one of the officers died from his injuries. The second officer remained in stable condition Saturday night. Their identities were not released as authorities are working to contact their families.

When the suspect fired at police, the rounds struck the officers, while gunfire was returned by law enforcement, striking the suspect, LASD said. The suspect was transported to the hospital in stable condition.

Authorities found another person nearby with fatal gunshot wounds who LASD believes the suspect may have killed.

Video from witnesses showed at least two SWAT vehicles and numerous patrol cars surrounding a home with officers pointing firearms at the suspect. Air units were also seen circling the neighborhood.

Alejandro Ramirez, who lives nearby, said he was stunned when he heard at least 10-20 gunshots being fired.

“I ran inside,” he said. “There were a lot of [shots].”

Surveillance video captured neighbors who were standing outside, many who had gathered for parties or get-togethers, frantically running to safety as gunshots were heard.

Another resident, whose car windshield was shattered by the gunfire, said he was shocked when he realized a shootout was happening on his street.

The suspect’s identity was not provided. There are reports that a second suspect may have been involved, but Baldwin Park police have not confirmed that detail.

Large crowds of neighbors and onlookers could be seen gathering near the crime scene. Law enforcement will remain in the residential neighborhood through the night and authorities have cordoned off nearby streets.

“Our officer was an amazing man,” said Baldwin Park police chief Robert Lopez at a Saturday night press conference. “It’s extremely tragic to have to deal with this. I ask for the community to remember the officers and the deputies who go out there every day, making it safe for all of our families, residents and the community.”

The second officer who remains hospitalized is surrounded by his family at this time, officials said.

The deadly incident will remain under investigation by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. No further details were released.

This developing story will be updated as more information becomes available.