EspañolRay McCullen Injured in Downtown Los Angeles Police Shooting Following Standoff at Motorhome by East 7th Street and Ceres Avenue
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA (March 31, 2026) – A man identified as Ray McCullen was injured in a downtown Los Angeles police shooting by the area of East 7th Street and Ceres Avenue.
Los Angeles Police Department officials are saying that the incident took place around 4:30 AM on Thursday. Officers received a call about a potential assault with a deadly weapon.
When responding officers arrived, they were able to establish communication with Ray McCullen. Additional officers arrived at the scene.
The man allegedly armed himself with some type of handgun before an officer-involved shooting. However, it was later determined that the weapon was actually a pellet gun.
Paramedics were called to the scene to help the man. Ray McCullen was transported to a local area hospital for treatment.
Liability for Los Angeles Police Shootings
Police officers in Los Angeles have a legal obligation to use the least amount of force necessary for any given encounter. A police department can be liable for the excessive force of their officers. According to 42 U.S. Code § 1983, every person who, under the color of law, deprives someone of their rights afforded under the Constitution, shall be liable to the injured party in an action at law. There are many steps that officers should take to avoid shooting suspects.
- Officers should maintain a safe distance with the suspect and avoid rushing into any situation.
- Officers should do everything in their power to de-escalate the encounter. This necessitates that they issue clear commands in a calm manner.
- Officers should resort to less-lethal options like tasers and beanbag rounds when these are available.
- Officers should work to determine if a suspect may be suffering from a mental health condition.
Lethal force should always be a measure of absolute last resort. But in far too many situations, this is not the case. Officers may choose to rush into an encounter and fail to consider safer alternatives. This is why it is so important that officers receive ample training and de-escalation. When a police officer fails to follow a safety rule promulgated by their employer, this could serve as evidence of negligence.
Steps to Take After Los Angeles Police Shootings
Many people are killed or seriously injured every year during police encounters across Los Angeles and 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.” Multiple actions should be taken after any police shooting.
- All body camera footage from officers involved should be sought.
- Medical records related to the victim’s injuries should be collected.
- Any person that may have witnessed what happened should be interviewed.
- Victims of excessive force should consider their legal options with a team experienced in constitutional law.
The Los Angeles Police Department has a long and sordid history of using excessive force on the citizens of LA. Sadly, the LAPD has demonstrated time and time again that when they investigate the actions of their officers, they will inevitably find that those officers did nothing wrong. This is why it is so important that there’s an independent investigation after any police shooting with the LAPD.
Investigating Los Angeles Police Shootings
We at the Carrillo Law Firm were very concerned to hear about the shooting of Ray McCullen. It is our sincere hope that he will be able to make a full recovery. The LAPD should do the right thing and be transparent about what took place.
Have you or someone you care about been injured by the excessive force of the Los Angeles Police Department? You may have legal recourse. Our team of experienced civil rights advocates is here for you. 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 any type of assistance, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at 626-799-9375.
