WOODLAND HILLS, CA – A neighborhood in Woodland Hills was thrown into chaos Monday morning after a police pursuit ended in a standoff and subsequent shooting involving Los Angeles police officers. The incident began in Van Nuys when a woman, reportedly armed, fled from officers in a white cargo van, leading them on a slow-speed chase that concluded in a suburban cul-de-sac.
Residents in the normally quiet area found themselves in the midst of a tense situation. Authorities evacuated some homes, while others were instructed to stay indoors for safety. The suspect, a 42-year-old woman, was eventually shot by police and taken to a hospital in critical condition. Witnesses described the unusual scene, noting it was not something typically expected in their neighborhood.
The standoff unfolded near Marmora Street and Arcane Road, where neighbors captured the dramatic events on video, later shared on social media. Footage showed the suspect on top of her van, armed with a gun, as police negotiators attempted to de-escalate the situation. Witnesses also reported seeing the woman with a machete, adding to the complexity of the incident.
The pursuit initially started around 7 a.m. near Sherman Way and Woodman Avenue in Van Nuys. A passerby noticed bullet holes in the van’s windshield and alerted authorities, suspecting a prior shooting. When officers arrived, they briefly communicated with the suspect before she brandished a handgun, pointed it at herself, and then re-entered the van, prompting the pursuit.
After the chase concluded in Woodland Hills, the woman repeatedly exited and re-entered the van. SWAT teams were deployed as the situation escalated. Police have yet to release detailed information on what precisely led to the shooting, but confirmed the suspect was struck during the confrontation.
The incident raised questions about the response and timing of medical assistance. Authorities emphasized the priority of ensuring officer safety while assessing the scene’s safety before approaching the suspect to provide medical care.
In addition to the woman, three dogs were found in the van, including two German Shepherds. Animal control officers were able to safely recover the animals, ensuring their well-being amid the turmoil.
As investigations continue, the community remains on edge, grappling with the aftermath of a shocking morning that disrupted the peace of their suburban enclave.