Gurpreet Singh, a 36-year-old Sikh man, was fatally shot by Los Angeles police after he was seen wielding a machete while performing gatka, a traditional Sikh martial art, near the Crypto.com Arena in downtown Los Angeles.
The unsettling incident took place on July 13, 2025, and the LAPD recently released bodycam footage highlighting the confrontation.
The video shows Singh, wearing a blue turban, vest, and shorts, brandishing a 2-foot blade on a busy street intersection.
Police officers repeatedly commanded him to drop the weapon, but Singh did not comply, even slashing his tongue with the sword, as reported by ABC7.
What led to the fatal shooting of Gurpreet Singh by LAPD?
Police were alerted after reports that Singh was waving the blade at passersby. Upon arrival, officers found him threatening people and performing martial arts moves with the machete in the middle of the road.
When Singh threw a bottle at officers and tried to flee in a vehicle while waving the sword from the window, a chase ensued.
After multiple commands to disarm failed, officers opened fire when Singh allegedly charged at them with the weapon.
Did you know?
Gatka is an ancient martial art form from Punjab that involves traditional swordplay, often performed during Sikh festivals and ceremonies.
How is the investigation unfolding around the shooting incident?
The LAPD’s investigation division is actively probing the case. Authorities reported that the investigation is ongoing, with witness interviews, forensic analysis, and review of electronic records underway.
The department warned that details may evolve as more evidence is reviewed, signaling a thorough examination of the complex encounter.
Details about Gurpreet Singh’s actions and police response
Witnesses told 911 dispatchers that Singh stopped his car at an intersection, exited the vehicle, and started swinging the machete aggressively.
Bodycam footage reveals officers Michael Orozco and Nestor Espinoza Bojorquez requesting Singh to drop the blade multiple times before the shooting. Despite clear commands, Singh did not comply and instead escalated the confrontation.
The ongoing police investigation into the deadly encounter
LAPD emphasized that their understanding of events is preliminary. The department continues to analyze physical and electronic evidence, alongside witness statements, to reconstruct the incident.
Singh was transported to a hospital but succumbed to his injuries on July 17, prompting discussions on police use of force during armed confrontations.
This tragic incident underlines the challenges law enforcement faces during confrontations with armed individuals. The thorough probe will help inform policies and responses for similar scenarios in the future.
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