LAPD fatally shoot domestic violence suspect in Westlake
The Los Angeles Police Department fatally shot a domestic violence suspect in the Westlake District Monday night.
The shooting happened at about 3:45 p.m. on the 200 block of Witmer Street.
According to police, the suspect armed himself with a large knife as officers arrived at the scene at about 3:30 p.m.
"Upon arrival, the officers made contact with the suspect, a male in his 40s, inside of an apartment unit," police said. "The suspect refused to exit the apartment unit or comply with the officers' orders, and they continued talking to him for approximately 15 minutes."
The suspect, identified as 45-year-old Takar Smith, was wanted for a domestic violence restraining order violation.
Shortly after officers arrived, he barricaded himself inside a Westlake District apartment. The suspect refused to surrender which resulted in officers using less-lethal weapons which include items like pepper spray and tasers.
"The suspect momentarily dropped the knife, but immediately rearmed himself with the large knife at which time, an officer-involved shooting occurred," according to officers.
Smith was pronounced dead shortly after the shooting occurred.
No officers were injured.
LAPD's Force Investigation Division, the District Attorney's office and the Office of the Inspector General were investigating the shooting and a Critical Incident Community Briefing will be available within 45 days including relevant body-worn video.
