INGLEWOOD, CA – In a chilling confrontation late Sunday night, an Inglewood police officer narrowly escaped serious injury when a juvenile armed with an AK-47 opened fire during a traffic stop. The entire episode, captured on the officer’s dashcam, depicts the life-threatening moments as bullets whizzed past the officer’s head.
The incident began at approximately 11 p.m. when the officer attempted to pull over a Jeep for a malfunctioning tail light near Dartmouth Avenue. The driver refused to stop, leading to a high-speed chase. Within a minute, the Jeep’s passenger brandished an AK-47 and unleashed a volley of bullets at the officer’s vehicle.
The dashcam footage reveals the dramatic scene: sparks flying as bullets struck the car’s engine and windshield, with one round piercing through the glass just inches from the officer’s head. Remarkably, the officer maintained pursuit, following the Jeep into a residential area where it ultimately crashed.
Both suspects, identified as juveniles, fled on foot. The officer’s vehicle, rendered undrivable due to extensive damage, was left at the scene. Authorities responded swiftly, issuing a reverse 911 alert and deploying SWAT teams and additional resources to search for the suspects. Although they evaded capture that night, police apprehended both individuals within 48 hours.
The Deputy Chief commended the officer’s courage and dedication, emphasizing that despite the inherent dangers, officers remain committed to safeguarding the community. The officer involved is recovering well and is expected to resume patrol duties next week.
This incident starkly illustrates the unpredictable hazards that law enforcement officers face, underscoring their unwavering commitment to public safety.