Homeowner Fires Shots During Early-Morning Burglary Attempt in Studio City

An early-morning burglary attempt in Studio City escalated dramatically on Tuesday when a homeowner opened fire on suspected intruders, prompting them to flee the scene, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.

The incident occurred around 4:40 a.m. at a multi-level home in the 11600 block of Laurelcrest Drive, a quiet hilltop neighborhood located between Ventura Boulevard and Laurel Canyon Boulevard. LAPD said the homeowner confronted two suspected burglars and discharged a firearm, causing the suspects to run from the property.

Authorities described the suspects only as two males wearing gray hoodies. It remains unclear whether either individual was struck by gunfire. The suspects reportedly escaped in a black Chevy Traverse SUV, which police continue to search for. Investigators also could not confirm whether anything was stolen during the attempted break-in. The homeowner was not injured.

Neighbors Describe Frightening Moments

Several nearby residents described being awakened by suspicious activity before the shots were fired. Diana, who lives across the street from the home, said she noticed a vehicle idling nearby around 4 a.m.

“I heard a rumbling engine and saw a black Chevy with its lights turning on and off,” she said. From her balcony, Diana shined a light toward the vehicle and took a photo before waking her husband to investigate further.

According to Diana, her husband approached the vehicle and photographed the license plate and rear of the SUV, but the activity did not deter those inside. Moments later, gunshots rang out.

“We heard a gun go off, and there were clearly people running through the shrubs,” Diana said. “We could hear them moving through the vegetation, then a car door slammed, the house alarm went off, and the car sped away.”

Diana immediately called 911 and was able to provide police with details about the vehicle, though she could not see the suspects clearly enough to give descriptions.

Boldness Raises Concerns

Residents expressed shock at how bold the suspects appeared to be, even with neighbors awake and actively observing the situation.

“My husband is a big guy,” Diana said. “The fact that we made our presence known and that still didn’t scare them off was surprising.”

Other neighbors echoed concerns about rising crime in the city. “This city has gotten so dangerous,” said resident Dave White. “Crime feels out of control.”

Another neighbor, Jaimie Joseph, said the incident highlights the importance of community awareness and involvement. “It could happen anywhere,” she said. “It makes you think about neighborhood watch and looking out for each other.”

Despite living in what many consider a peaceful area, residents said the incident served as a reminder that even quiet neighborhoods can be vulnerable.

“Sometimes a quiet neighborhood isn’t always a good thing,” Diana said.

Police continue to investigate the incident and are asking anyone with information about the black Chevy Traverse SUV or the suspects to contact LAPD.

Source: ABC7