Police responded early Sunday morning to a shooting in an alley near an apartment complex in Canoga Park, a neighborhood of Los Angeles. Two women were struck when gunfire erupted from a parked car that held five occupants. One of the victims is pregnant and was rushed to a hospital in critical condition; the second woman sustained injuries but is expected to recover.
Details of the incident
According to the Los Angeles Police Department, the car rolled down the alley after the shots were fired and collided with a refrigerator. Detectives have not confirmed whether the victims knew the shooter or if the attack was random. “It’s too early to say, but we have some good leads and we’re working on that,” said Detective Evans, who is leading the investigation.
Neighbors reported hearing the gunshots around 7 a.m. Olga Valdez, who lives nearby, said she initially thought the noise might have been fireworks. She estimated hearing about five shots before realizing it was gunfire. Valdez also recalled a separate deadly shooting in the area about a week earlier and expressed that increased police patrols could help residents feel safer.
Police investigation
Detectives are exploring all possible motives, including whether gang activity played a role. No arrests have been announced, and the victims’ identities have not been released. The LAPD emphasized that they are pursuing leads and will provide updates as the investigation progresses.
The incident has left the community shaken, with many residents expressing concern about safety so close to their homes. Local leaders have not yet issued a formal statement, but the incident underscores ongoing concerns about gun violence in the San Fernando Valley.
Community response
Residents gathered outside the alley shortly after the shooting to discuss the impact on the neighborhood. While some expressed frustration over the frequency of violent incidents, others called for more proactive policing and community outreach programs aimed at preventing future shootings.
City officials have not yet announced any specific measures in response to this particular event, but the LAPD has indicated that patrols in the area will be increased in the short term while the investigation continues.
What’s next?
The LAPD will continue to investigate the shooting, seeking witnesses and reviewing surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses. Authorities have asked anyone with information to contact the department’s tip line.
As the community awaits further details, the focus remains on supporting the injured women and their families, and on ensuring that Canoga Park remains a safe place for its residents.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
