Local politicians react to Beverly Crest mass shooting, citing ‘scourge of gun violence’

As Los Angeles residents took their first deep breaths a week after the Monterey Park mass shooting, it happened again.

Another mass shooting; this time in the Beverly Crest area. At least three people were killed and four others injured during an incident reported just after 2:30 a.m. at a short-term rental in the 2700 block of Ellison Drive.

As the story developed Saturday, politicians offered rebukes of gun violence and their condolences to a city still reeling from last weekend’s Monterey Park tragedy where a gunman killed 11 and injured 9 at Star Ballroom Dance Studio.

Los Angeles City Councilmember Katy Yaroslavsky whose district 5 encompasses Beverley Crest, in a text message, said her staff is closely monitoring the situation while being briefed by the Los Angeles Police Department.

“This shooting is a tragic reminder that the scourge of gun violence is not contained to one particular neighborhood or community,” wrote Yaroslavsky. “It affects all of us, and together, we must put an end to it.”

The shooting took place at a gathering in a 2,400-square-foot modern home in what has, in years past, been a quiet, family-friendly neighborhood. But, residents interviewed in the area Saturday, said homeowners have recently been renting out many of the homes on that street.

Four of the seven people shot were standing outside, said police and bullet holes were seen along the side of one vehicle that was towed away at the scene. Police said the three dead victims were in a vehicle that was parked in front of the residence.

Identities of the deceased were not released, including ages or genders. Those who were injured were taken to a hospital; two were in critical condition.

Though suspects are still at large in the shooting, according to investigators at the scene, there is no danger to the public.

Mayor Karen Bass tweeted “This is the 11th mass shooting in the United States and the fourth in California this week.” She then repeated and emphasized in capital letters: THIS. WEEK.

“Thoughts and prayers are not enough,” wrote Bass. “We need action.”

Congressman Ted Lieu wrote on Twitter, “My heart goes out to the victims and families of another mass shooting in America, this time in Benedict Canyon.”

Lindsay Horvath, Los Angeles County Supervisor for District 3 echoed a gun control sentiment.

“Gun violence continues to plague our communities. This time, even closer to home,” Horvath wrote on Twitter. “We are actively monitoring this developing situation, but one thing is clear: there are too many guns on our streets.”

And as with all mass casualty events, politicians offer their thoughts and prayers for those most directly impacted.

“My thoughts are with the victims’ families, and the neighboring communities as they grieve this horrific act of violence,” wrote Yaroslavsky.