Mentally Ill Man With Knife Shot in Los Angeles
Bodycam Video Released by Police
On July 20, 2023, a tragic Officer-Involved Shooting (OIS) occurred in Newton Division, Los Angeles.
The incident began with a radio call reporting an Assault with a Deadly Weapon (ADW). The suspect, later identified as Billy Stribling, was allegedly threatening another individual with a knife at an apartment building on East 7th Street.
Upon receiving the call, officers were dispatched to the scene. Guided by the building's security staff, they made their way to the 6th floor, where they encountered the suspect, armed with both a knife and an umbrella.
The situation escalated quickly. The suspect raised the knife and advanced towards the officers, leading to an OIS and the deployment of a 40mm less-lethal projectile.
Struck by both gunfire and the less-lethal projectile, the suspect fell to the ground and was taken into custody without further incident. Immediate medical aid was provided at the scene, but despite the best efforts of medical professionals, the suspect was later pronounced deceased at a local hospital. Thankfully, no officers or bystanders were injured in the incident.
The officers involved were identified as Police Officer II Diego Bracamontes and Police Officer II Hayley Basile, both assigned to Newton Division. A five-inch fixed blade knife, a key piece of evidence, was recovered at the scene.
The Los Angeles Police Department's (LAPD) Force Investigation Division has taken charge of an ongoing investigation into the incident. This comprehensive inquiry includes interviews with witnesses, review of physical and electronic records, and meticulous analysis of forensic evidence.
The complete investigation will be thoroughly reviewed by the Chief of Police, the Board of Police Commissioners, and the Office of the Inspector General. This review will determine compliance with LAPD's stringent policies and procedures.
Security Camera Footage Released by Police