13-Year-Old Suspect Identified After Shooting Near Sepulveda Middle School in North Hills
A 13-year-old student has been identified as the primary suspect in a shooting incident near Sepulveda Middle School in North Hills, Los Angeles, that left a 17-year-old teenager hospitalized and prompted a temporary school lockdown, authorities confirmed.
Shooting Near School Sparks Lockdown
The incident occurred just after 3 p.m. Wednesday in the 15300 block of Plummer Street, approximately two blocks from the Sepulveda Middle School campus. According to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), the victim, a 17-year-old, was shot in the thigh during a fight that broke out near Sepulveda Boulevard.
Although the shooting happened off campus, its close proximity led school officials to initiate an immediate lockdown as a precaution.
Suspect Identified as Middle School Student
Investigators have identified a 13-year-old student as the primary suspect in the case. Authorities have not released further details regarding the circumstances leading up to the confrontation. The condition of the injured teen has not been confirmed.
Officials also clarified that the victim was not enrolled at Sepulveda Middle School.
School Response and Safety Measures
The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) confirmed that the lockdown was implemented due to the nearby police activity.
In a statement, the district said additional staff were deployed to support student safety and provide mental health resources following the incident. Increased patrols from the Los Angeles School Police Department remained in place the following day to reassure students and staff.
Investigation Ongoing
LAPD and school police investigators continue to interview witnesses and gather evidence. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting to contact the LAPD communication center at 213-625-6631 or submit anonymous tips through the Los Angeles Schools Anonymous Reporting app.
The investigation remains active as officials work to determine what led to the violent confrontation near the school.