Compton, CA — A woman fatally shot a man who allegedly groped a female customer and threatened to kill multiple people inside a store in Compton, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. Authorities are now asking additional witnesses to come forward as the investigation continues.
Deputies from the Compton Sheriff’s Station responded Sunday afternoon to an emergency call reporting a disturbance at a shopping center in the 1300 block of East Alondra Boulevard. The situation quickly escalated when deputies learned there was a gunshot victim inside the store.
Confrontation Inside the Store
Investigators say the unidentified man followed a female customer into the store and groped her, sparking a confrontation with employees who demanded he leave. Instead, the suspect became verbally aggressive and began throwing and damaging merchandise.
According to The Los Angeles Times, witnesses told deputies that the man then pulled out what appeared to be a knife and began threatening to harm everyone in the store.
“He threatened to kill and harm everyone in the store,” the Sheriff’s Department said in a news release.
Woman Intervenes With Firearm
As panic spread, another customer — a woman legally carrying a personal firearm — stepped in to protect others. Officials say she fired a warning shot after the man continued to advance and ignore commands to stop.
“A second customer in the store, fearing for the store employees, herself, and other customers, retrieved a personal firearm and fired a warning shot at the male,” the report stated.
When the man turned toward the armed customer, she believed he was about to attack and fired a second shot, striking him in the upper body.
Deputies arrived shortly after and found the man suffering from a gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigation and Witness Search
Authorities say surveillance video confirmed that several other customers were inside the store when the incident occurred. Investigators believe those witnesses could provide additional insight into the man’s actions before and during the shooting.
“Based on video evidence, there were additional customers in the store who might have witnessed the incident unfold,” investigators said.
Officials have urged anyone who was in the store or nearby parking lot to contact the Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers by calling (800) 222-8477, using the P3 Tips app, or visiting the Crime Stoppers website.
Community Response and Legal Review
The incident has reignited local debate about self-defense laws in California, with some residents praising the woman’s quick action and others urging caution until investigators determine whether the shooting was legally justified.
Officials have not released the woman’s name or said whether she will face any charges pending the outcome of the investigation.
The Sheriff’s Department emphasized that the case remains active and that all evidence, including video footage and witness statements, will be reviewed by prosecutors.
What are your thoughts on this case of self-defense in a public setting? Share your views in the comments below.
