EspañolBrandon Goytia, 18, Died During Surveillance Operation in West Hills, Los Angeles at Parking Lot Shopping Center
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA (January 25, 2026) – A man identified as Brandon Goytia has died in a West Hills, Los Angeles police shooting in the parking lot of a shopping center.
Los Angeles County officials are saying that the incident took place around 8:40 p.m. on Thursday. Police were documenting some sort of surveillance operation when they allegedly observed Brandon Goytia near a Michaels store.
There were apparently a string of robberies in the Malibu and Lost Hills area. Deputies allegedly observed a man approach a woman and attempt to rob her.
Authorities confronted the individual before an officer-involved shooting occurred. Paramedics were called to the scene to help the injured man, who was later identified as Brandon Goytia.
He was later pronounced dead following the shooting. A full investigation into the incident remains ongoing at this time.
Liability for Los Angeles County Police Shootings
Police officers must only use lethal force as a measure of last resort when attempting to apprehend suspects. Pursuant to 42 U.S. Code § 1983, every person who, under the color of any statute, law or ordinance, causes a citizen of the United States to be deprived of their rights secured by the constitution, shall be liable to the injured party in an action at law. In particular, officers should follow a number of measures to avoid needlessly harming suspects.
- De-escalation: Police officers should prioritize de-escalation techniques. This will involve them using calm communication and avoiding rushing into volatile situations.
- Vulnerable Populations: Police officers should follow all relevant protocol when dealing with vulnerable populations. This includes people with cognitive disabilities or mental illness.
- Use-of-Force Continuum: Police officers should use the least amount of force necessary for any given encounter. They should prioritize less-lethal options like tasers when possible.
Whether or not any officer’s use of force was excessive will depend on the specific facts of any incident. Courts in California will take into consideration all of the circumstances leading up to any particular incident. It matters whether or not the officer attempted to de-escalate the encounter. It also matters whether or not the suspect may have been in the midst of a mental health crisis.
Steps to Take After Los Angeles County Police Shootings
Many people are injured in police shootings every year in California. According to the Public Policy Institute of California, “About 195 people die each year from interactions with California law enforcement. Gunshots are by far the most common cause of death: nearly 250 people are shot by police each year.” It is important that certain actions are taken after any police shooting.
- All of the medical records related to the shooting should be sought.
- Surveillance footage from nearby businesses should be carefully reviewed.
- Body camera footage from all officers involved should be examined.
- The family of any person who died in a police shooting should seek the guidance of an experienced civil rights attorney.
Many police shootings are highly preventable. They tend to involve situations where officers are either unwilling or unable to de-escalate encounters. Sadly, police departments will virtually never accept responsibility if one of their officers injures or kills a suspect. Family members of any person killed due to the excessive force of law enforcement may be able to pursue some measure of accountability through a civil action.
Investigating Los Angeles County Police Shootings
We at the Carrillo Law Firm were deeply concerned to hear about the death of Brandon Goytia. There needs to be a thorough investigation into what took place. Any person who may have more information should reach out to authorities. The Los Angeles Police Department needs to be transparent about what happened.
Do you need more information about a Los Angeles County police shooting? Our team of civil rights attorneys is here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into any particular incident, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at 626-799-9375.
