Four people were injured after gunfire erupted near crowds celebrating the World Cup in East Los Angeles, prompting a major emergency response and a police investigation.
The shooting happened at around 10pm on Sunday near the junction of Whittier Boulevard and Leonard Avenue, where large crowds had gathered following the World Cup match between Mexico and England.
Videos shared online showed hundreds of people celebrating, with cars sounding their horns and many supporters waving Mexican flags. Footage also appeared to show vehicles performing doughnuts in the road moments before several gunshots rang out, sending people running for cover.
Witnesses were seen rushing to help at least one injured person before emergency services arrived at the scene.
Police officers and paramedics quickly cordoned off the area as they responded to reports of multiple victims. Images from the scene showed a significant emergency presence, with streets closed while investigators began examining the area.
According to local reports, a second shooting was reported around eight minutes later at the junction of Amalia Avenue and 6th Street, where another person was injured. A third incident was also reported near Amalia Avenue and Whittier Boulevard.
Despite the reports coming from different nearby locations, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said the victims were found in several locations along or close to Whittier Boulevard and that investigators are treating the incidents as part of a single shooting investigation.
Four people were taken to hospital following the incident. Authorities have not yet released details about the extent of their injuries or provided an update on their conditions.
No arrests have been announced, and detectives are continuing to investigate what led to the shooting.
Officials have not yet confirmed whether the violence was connected to the World Cup celebrations themselves or whether those involved were known to each other.
Police are expected to review CCTV footage and speak with witnesses as they work to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is being urged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
