LOS ANGELES, CA – A man was shot by Los Angeles police officers early Friday morning after he raised what appeared to be a handgun during a traffic stop, though the weapon was later determined to be nothing more than a novelty torch lighter shaped like a pistol.
Angel Elijah Cruz, 38, was a passenger in a vehicle that officers from the Central Patrol Division pulled over around 3:34 a.m. near the intersection of Gladys Avenue and 8th Street in the department’s Newton Division. The traffic stop quickly escalated when officers noticed what looked like a pistol grip between Cruz’s legs.
According to the Los Angeles Police Department, officers repeatedly ordered Cruz not to move or reach for the object. While they were issuing commands, dispatchers informed them that the vehicle had been reported stolen, prompting backup officers and a supervisor to respond to the scene.
Despite the warnings, Cruz allegedly raised the pistol-grip object toward officers, who opened fire in response. He was struck by gunfire but survived the encounter. After being removed from the vehicle and taken into custody, Cruz was transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital for treatment of his wounds.
Investigators later determined that the object Cruz raised was actually a replica handgun-style torch lighter, not a real firearm. The item was recovered at the scene and booked into evidence.
Cruz has been charged with drawing or exhibiting an imitation firearm, a crime that carries serious penalties under California law. The driver of the stolen vehicle was also taken into custody without incident. No officers or bystanders were injured during the confrontation.
The LAPD’s Force Investigation Division is conducting a thorough review of the shooting. Officials emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing and details could change as additional evidence is examined.
The incident highlights the split-second decisions officers must make when confronted with what appears to be a deadly threat, even when the perceived weapon turns out to be harmless.
