The California Department of Justice has launched an investigation into a police shooting that occurred in Los Angeles, despite the LAPD’s assertion that the man involved was armed. This investigation falls under a law that mandates the state attorney general to look into police shootings involving unarmed individuals.
The incident happened late Tuesday night in Koreatown. Officers were called to an apartment building on Ardmore Avenue after reports of a shooting. When they arrived, they encountered Ronald Gainer Jr., who was reportedly exiting an apartment while holding a handgun. The officers opened fire, and Gainer retreated back into the apartment. He was later taken into custody but died at a hospital shortly thereafter.
Upon entering the apartment, officers found a handgun and discharged cartridge casings. They also discovered a second gun and ammunition inside the unit. According to LAPD officials, Gainer had earlier been involved in a domestic violence incident with his girlfriend, during which he allegedly fired a gun into the air and toward a building.
The LAPD’s Force Investigation Division was already looking into the shooting as part of standard procedures for any use of force by officers. However, California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced that his office would also investigate. This decision was made in accordance with Assembly Bill 1506, which requires an independent investigation when it is unclear whether the individual killed was in control of a weapon at the time of the shooting.
Bonta’s office emphasized that they would investigate cases where the circumstances surrounding the possession of a weapon are ambiguous. Under the law, possession is defined as having control of the weapon at the time of the shooting.
The Department of Justice’s investigation will be separate from the LAPD’s inquiry. Their findings will be submitted to prosecutors in Bonta’s office, who will determine if any criminal charges are warranted. If no charges are filed, the prosecutors will be required to release a report explaining their decision and the evidence that led to it.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about police use of force, particularly in situations involving firearms and mental health crises. The outcome of the investigations may have significant implications for police accountability and community trust in law enforcement.