The LAPD has released bodycam video from a non-fatal OIS that took place on April 23, 2025. A pursuit suspect fled on foot and refused to stop reaching into a backpack. Assuming the male was armed, officers opened fire. The man was unarmed.

A dangerous chase ended in gunfire on the 105 Freeway in South Los Angeles on Wednesday afternoon.

Police said the suspect, who they believed was armed and dangerous, led officers on a short foot pursuit before they fired shots. Though it turns out the suspect did not have a gun when officers opened fire.

Investigators said the suspect reached his hand into a backpack during the foot chase, and that's what led an officer to fire shots.

The shooting happened just before 2:30 p.m. in the middle of Central Avenue, just south of the 105 Freeway in the Watts area. It all started as a chase just about a half-mile away in Nickerson Gardens.

Police said the chase did not last long, and within just a few minutes, the suspect drove on the on-ramp, trying to get on the 105 Freeway.

The suspect changed his mind and turned around. AIR7 video from above the scene shows the suspect driving the wrong way down the on-ramp.

Police say that's when the suspect got out and took off, sparking the foot chase.

At some point, officers said the suspect reached into a backpack, and a five-year veteran with the force opened fire.

When investigators searched the suspect's backpack, no gun was found. The suspect was taken to the hospital in serious condition.