The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has released surveillance footage capturing a fatal officer-involved shooting that occurred near the University of Southern California (USC) on January 11, 2025.
The incident involved 43-year-old Brian Rolstad, a resident of a local treatment facility, who was fatally shot by officers after allegedly stabbing a facility employee in the face.
Incident Overview
On January 11, at approximately 11 a.m., LAPD officers responded to a report of an assault with a deadly weapon at a residential treatment center located in the 900 block of West 23rd Street, in the University Park area south of the Santa Monica Freeway.
Upon arrival, officers discovered a staff member who had sustained multiple stab wounds to the face. The suspect, later identified as Rolstad, had fled the scene.
Surveillance Footage Details
The newly released surveillance video provides a detailed account of the events leading up to the shooting.
In the footage, Rolstad is seen attacking the facility employee with a folding knife before fleeing the premises.
The video then shows officers confronting Rolstad nearby. Despite commands to drop his weapon, Rolstad advanced toward the officers. In an attempt to subdue him, officers deployed less-lethal beanbag rounds, which temporarily incapacitated him.
However, Rolstad quickly regained his footing and continued to approach the officers, prompting them to discharge their firearms.
Rolstad was struck by the gunfire and later pronounced dead at a local hospital. A 6-inch folding knife was recovered at the scene.
Official Statements and Investigation
In a statement, the LAPD detailed the sequence of events, noting that officers initially employed less-lethal measures to de-escalate the situation.
When these proved ineffective, and Rolstad continued his advance, the situation escalated to the use of lethal force. The department emphasized that the release of the surveillance footage aligns with its commitment to transparency and public trust.
The incident is currently under investigation by the LAPD’s Force Investigation Division, which will review the officers’ actions to determine compliance with departmental policies and procedures.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office is also conducting an independent review to assess the legality of the officer’s use of force.
Community Response
The release of the surveillance footage has elicited varied reactions from the community.
Some residents appreciate the LAPD’s transparency in providing a clear account of the incident, while others express concerns about the escalation to lethal force.
Community leaders and advocacy groups have called for a thorough and impartial investigation to ensure accountability and to address broader concerns regarding police interactions with individuals experiencing mental health crises.
Context and Background
This incident adds to a series of officer-involved shootings in the Los Angeles area that have drawn public attention.
In a separate case, the LAPD released footage of an undercover officer fatally shooting an unarmed 18-year-old from within an unmarked police vehicle, sparking debates over police tactics and the use of force.
These events have intensified discussions about law enforcement’s approach to handling situations involving individuals with mental health issues or those in crisis.
Read More:
- Woman Dies After Being Hit by Dui Suspect in Visalia, Police Say!
- Man Admits to Defrauding Investors with Loans Made to Bitwise!
Policy Implications
In response to such incidents, the LAPD has reiterated its commitment to reviewing and, if necessary, revising its use-of-force policies.
The department emphasizes ongoing training for officers in de-escalation techniques and the use of less-lethal options.
Additionally, there is a focus on strengthening partnerships with mental health professionals to provide appropriate responses to incidents involving individuals in crisis.
Next Steps
As the investigations proceed, the LAPD has pledged to keep the public informed of any developments. The department encourages anyone with additional information or footage related to the incident to come forward.
Community meetings are being organized to address residents’ concerns and to discuss measures aimed at preventing similar occurrences in the future.
Disclaimer- Our team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and maintain its credibility. We are committed to providing honest and reliable content for our readers.