URGENT UPDATE: Newly released body camera footage captures the intense moment police officers fired at an assault suspect in Northridge, California, on July 20, 2023. The incident unfolded when officers responded to reports of a man armed with a gun near Prairie Street.
According to police, the suspect, identified as 28-year-old Romario Iraheta, was first spotted by an LAPD helicopter riding a skateboard and attempting to evade capture. The dramatic video, posted on the LAPD’s official YouTube channel, shows Iraheta near a shopping center, suddenly fleeing as an LAPD vehicle approached.
During the foot chase, officers reported that Iraheta pointed a firearm at them, prompting them to open fire. Authorities confirmed, “Iraheta was struck by gunfire but continued to run, stopping a short time later before being taken into custody.”
He was swiftly transported to a hospital for treatment and has since been booked for assault with a deadly weapon against a police officer. Fortunately, no other injuries were reported during this alarming encounter.
Police recovered a black steel handgun, equipped with a high-capacity magazine and live rounds, which has been secured as evidence. The incident is still under investigation, and officials are urging anyone with information to come forward.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in dealing with armed suspects and raises questions about public safety in the community. As details continue to unfold, the LAPD is committed to transparency and will provide updates as they become available.
Stay tuned for more developments on this urgent situation as authorities work to piece together the events leading up to this police shooting.
