Full Breakdown
Fatal Police Shooting of Juan Guerrero Rojo in Hollywood
12/21/2025, 11:34:32 AM
Incident Overview
On December 18, 2025, Juan Guerrero Rojo, a 38-year-old man, was fatally shot by officers from the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) in Hollywood. The incident occurred around 3:35 p.m. at an apartment complex located in the 1400 block of North Bronson Avenue, following reports of a possibly suicidal individual armed with a knife. Guerrero Rojo was described as "speaking to ghosts" and had threatened to harm himself and anyone who approached his residence.
Sequence of Events
Upon arriving at the scene, LAPD officers attempted to communicate with Guerrero Rojo, who was inside his apartment. As officers announced their presence, he abruptly opened the door and charged at them while wielding a large kitchen knife. In response, the officers used a 40mm less-lethal foam launcher, which was ineffective. Subsequently, the officers discharged their firearms, striking Guerrero Rojo. He was transported to a hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. No officers or bystanders were reported injured during the incident.
Investigation and Evidence
The LAPD has initiated an investigation into the shooting, which is expected to affect traffic in the area of North Bronson Avenue from Sunset Boulevard to Fountain Avenue for several hours. Detectives recovered the knife used by Guerrero Rojo and have booked it as evidence. The investigation will determine the circumstances surrounding the officers' use of lethal force.
Official Statements & Responses
The LAPD stated that the officers acted in response to a perceived threat posed by Guerrero Rojo, who was armed and had made alarming statements prior to the confrontation. The police emphasized that their priority was to ensure the safety of the public and themselves during the incident.
Criticism & Opposition
While there have been no formal public criticisms reported at this time, incidents involving police use of lethal force often attract scrutiny from community members and advocacy groups concerned about police conduct and mental health crisis responses. The circumstances of Guerrero Rojo's mental state and the officers' decision-making process may be examined closely as the investigation unfolds.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There are discrepancies in the timing of the police response, with reports indicating the shooting was first reported around 3:44 p.m., while the initial dispatch was at 3:35 p.m. Additionally, it remains unclear whether the officers attempted other de-escalation tactics before resorting to lethal force.
Verbatim Quotes
“The comments of the call indicated the Person Reporting (Guerrero Rojo) stated he was armed with a knife, threatening to kill himself, speaking to ghosts, and had expressed that he would kill anyone who approached his front door,” — LAPD Statement
“Shortly thereafter, the subject suddenly exited the apartment and ran towards the officers armed with a large kitchen knife.” — LAPD Statement
“Paramedics took the man to a hospital, where he later died as a result of his injuries.” — LAPD Statement
This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding police interactions with individuals experiencing mental health crises and the protocols in place for such situations.
