In Los Angeles, the Force Investigation Division of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is currently conducting an investigation into an Officer-Involved Shooting (OIS) that took place in the 77th Street Division. The incident occurred on September 27, 2023, around 4:02 p.m., when officers from the Gang Enforcement Detail responded to a radio call regarding an “Assault with a Deadly Weapon” shooting in the vicinity of 73rd Street and Towne Avenue.
Upon receiving the call, additional information was provided, describing the suspect as a black male dressed entirely in black, riding a bicycle, wearing a ski mask, and armed with two shotguns. A second suspect was also reported, described as wearing a green jacket, riding a bicycle, and armed with a handgun.
Responding officers began searching the area and soon noticed a bicycle on the ground in the rear parking area of a single-story apartment complex on the 400 block of East 76th Street. They decided to investigate further and approached a suspect who was later identified as 36-year-old Devon Henderson. Henderson matched the description provided, wearing all black clothing and a “Gator” style face mask. Moreover, he was holding an assault rifle and a shotgun.
The officers immediately called on Henderson to drop the weapons, but he refused to comply. Despite repeated verbal commands from the officers, Henderson turned away and proceeded through a walkway within the complex. The officers maintained visual contact with Henderson as he approached the end of the complex. At that point, Henderson turned to face the officers, still clutching the weapons, leading to an Officer-Involved Shooting. Henderson was struck by gunfire and subsequently taken into custody without any further incident.
Following the shooting, the Los Angeles Fire Department arrived at the scene and transported Henderson to a local hospital, where he received treatment for the gunshot wound. Fortunately, his condition was deemed stable, and no officers or community members sustained injuries during the incident.
Despite their efforts, officers from the 77th Street Division were unable to locate the second suspect described in the initial report, and no victim of an Assault with a Deadly Weapon has been identified thus far. However, an assault rifle was recovered at the scene, revealing that the weapon had an empty chamber but was loaded. Additionally, a J.C. Higgins, Sears & Roebuck 12-gauge shotgun was also found. Although this shotgun’s chamber and magazine tube were empty, it was equipped with a black nylon butt cuff capable of holding two 12-gauge rounds.
The investigation into this Officer-Involved Shooting continues, as the LAPD’s Force Investigation Division thoroughly examines the circumstances surrounding the incident. The aim is to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the events and determine if the officers involved adhered to the department’s policies and procedures.
As of now, the details of the investigation and any potential consequences for the officers involved remain undisclosed. However, the LAPD is committed to transparency and accountability, and once the investigation is complete, a comprehensive report will be shared with the public. The department understands the importance of addressing any concerns or questions regarding the actions of its officers and will take appropriate action if necessary.
Officer-Involved Shootings are always subject to thorough investigations to ensure responsible and just policing practices. The LAPD remains dedicated to maintaining public trust through transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement of its policies and procedures.
