Officer Involved Shooting Follows Apparent Robbery Attempt of Undercover Officers

Los Angeles: An 18 year-old male suspect confronted undercover officers with a gun in an apparent robbery attempt.  

On October 16, 2024 at about 11:10 p.m., two on-duty undercover officers were seated in a plain police vehicle  in the area of 70th Street and Flower Street, when they were approached by a male black adult.  The suspect displayed a gun in an apparent robbery attempt of the undercover officers.  An officer involved shooting occurred.  The two officers each fired multiple rounds striking the suspect.  The officers were not injured.

The suspect was transported by ambulance to the California Hospital where he underwent emergency surgery for multiple gunshot wounds to his torso.  His condition is described as serious but stable.     

The involved officers are Police Officer II Judith Castellanos, 4 years, 6 months with the Department and Police Officer II Steve Sainz, 3 years, 10 months with the Department.

Force Investigation Division is responsible for conducting the investigation.

Persons with any information related to this incident are requested to call the 24 hour tip line at 1-877 LAWFULL (529-3855).  Those wishing to remain anonymous may use their cellular phones and text to “CRIMES” or by logging on to www.lapdonline.org and clicking on “webtips.”  When using a cell phone always begin the text portion of the message with the letters LAPD.  Texting or internet tips provided in this manner are anonymous.

Comments

[joe sixpack]

A new report revealed both the Wellston Police Chief and Assistant Police Chief pointed loaded guns at one another, with Robert Cossia threatening to shoot his boss.

The report was prepared by Pine Lawn police and turned over to prosecutors. The findings were serious, embarrassing, and could lead to criminal charges.

“We are not at liberty to discuss or speak about the incident that happened, but it is going to come out in the wash,” said Chief Brian Gilmore.

A recently obtained report shows two men, bullets away from a tragedy inside Wellston City Hall.

Investigators said it started when Chief Gilmore had a contentious payroll meeting with a female officer. Assistant Chief Cossia entered the office and wanted to speak to everyone involved, including the mayor.

The report says a conversation quickly turned into a shouting match between Gilmore and Cossia. The assistant chief said Gilmore struck him in the chest. Cossia said he was then forced to defend himself by choking Gilmore.

The chief had a different version of what happened and said he only made a move after he was choked. Both admit Cossia was pushed, causing him to fall backwards and break a desk.

While on the ground, Cossia said he drew his .40 caliber handgun. Cossia said he pointed his gun at Gilmore, who responded by pulling his loaded .9mm handgun.

No bullets were fired and the altercation was broken up by Wellston’s mayor. The mayor, who has heart problems, had to be treated at the scene. The Saint Louis County Prosecutor’s Office is looking at the report. They could determine if charges will be filed by as early as next week
STLOUIS MO 63133

[Juanita Fanita]

Nice work. But it wastes resources having Officers monitoring the arrestee at the hospital. 10 ring next time OK guys.

[Anne E. Hall]

In regard to the October 17 officer involved shooting in LA, since when do the involved officers have their names publicised? Don't we protect our officers anymore? I am the very proud daughter of an officer and the widow of an LAPD officer but I sure can't recommend the job anymore. We don't back our own

[Anne E. Hall]

My previous comment was sincere and heartfelt.

[Ed O'Shea]

Thank God the Officers are ok, and they had thier heads in the game. Excellent job!

[Yut Yut]

Juanita,

Been in an OIS before?

This isn't shooting a combat qualification or bonus at the range, at a stationary target.

They scored multiple hits on the torso, good enough for me.

Good job, coppers.