LOS ANGELES — In a troubling incident in downtown Los Angeles, two security guards sustained gunshot wounds while attempting to detain a man who was leaving a store with a suitcase filled with unpaid merchandise, as reported by local authorities on Tuesday.
According to police, the confrontation escalated into gunfire, prompting the suspect to flee on a bicycle. Fortunately, both guards are reported to be in stable condition. The search for the suspect is ongoing.
This incident highlights increasing concerns amongst California voters regarding retail theft and crime, with many feeling that such activities have gone unchecked. Recently, voters approved a ballot measure that increments shoplifting to a felony for repeat offenders, reversing a previous law that classified thefts under $950 as a misdemeanor. Although comprehensive data on the issue is limited, recent reports indicate a rise in shoplifting incidents, including viral videos showing large-scale thefts at major retail locations. Additionally, voters have held several district attorneys accountable for their handling of crime.
Witness Judith Conway recounted her experience to local media, describing her time in a Target store at the FIGat7th outdoor shopping mall when the gunfire erupted, leaving shoppers in a panic.
“We heard several rounds fired, and instinctively, we ran towards the back, leaving our items behind, just trying to get to safety,” Conway stated.
Fortunately, no other shoppers were reported injured in the incident.
