Dead Homeless Man Was Unarmed

Los Angeles police revealed this week that the man killed during a confrontation with officers at a homeless encampment in Culver City was unarmed.

The circumstances of the incident are still under investigation, but the homeless man was not carrying a gun, police said. He was holding a bicycle part that was shaped like a handgun.

The shooting took place on Jan. 11 following reports that a man with a gun had exited a tent at the encampment under the 405 freeway at Venice Boulevard

When LAPD Sergeant Colin Langsdale arrived at the scene, he was forced to make a split-second decision, police said. He observed a man who he thought was carrying a gun. During the confrontation, the suspect was shot and was pronounced dead a short time later at UCLA-Ronald Reagan Hospital.

The encampment at Venice Boulevard has become a haven for drug and criminal activity and residents have complained to the Culver City Council about the filth, trash, foul odors, used hypodermic needles and encroachment on the neighborhood. Residents have also reported receiving threats from the homeless camped at that location.

The LAPD Force Investigation Division is investigating the deadly shooting at the homeless encampment.

According to an initial police report, a witness also observed the suspect and believed the item in his hand was a gun as well. But a search for a gun turned up the bicycle part in the suspect's hand and was recovered as evidence.

The complete investigation will be reviewed by the LAPD Chief of Police and the Board of Police Commissioners and the Office of the Inspector General to determine the thoroughness and accuracy of the investigation and whether the use of deadly force complied with the LAPD's policies and procedures. Additionally, representatives from the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office who responded to the scene will review the subsequent FID investigation; evidence collected and witness statements to determine if the force used by the officer(s) violated any criminal laws.

Anyone with additional information regarding this incident is urged to call the LAPD at any of the following numbers: During business hours at (213) 486-5230 or during non-business hours or on weekends at (877)-LAPD-247.

They can also visit http://www.lapdonline.org and click on "Anonymous Web Tips.