Shots rang out at Universal CityWalk early Monday morning, sending people running for their lives. The alleged gunman was shot and killed by police. Kim Baldonado reports for the NBC4 News at 5 p.m. on Monday, May 12, 2014.
A man shot and killed by police after they said he opened fire at Universal CityWalk was identified on Monday as James Renee White Jr., 21, of Los Angeles.
The incident happened at the popular tourist destination at 1:30 a.m. Monday.
Los Angeles police initially responded to a "group disturbance" call outside Infusion Lounge as crowds were leaving CityWalk.
As officers arrived, gunfire was reported in the crowd and officers took cover, said LAPD Sgt. Barry Montgomery.
"They saw a man armed with a handgun, and at that time an officer-involved shooting occurred," Montgomery said.
Three people were hurty trying to escape the gunfire, police said.
Witnesses told NBC4 that the fight broke out inside Infusion Lounge, where a “Battle of the DJs” event was being held.
Before officers arrived, at least two rounds were fired outside the lounge in what police described as a "common area" at CityWalk.
"It got out of hand and you see everyone fighting," a witness told NBC4.
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The entertainment, shopping and dining complex in the San Fernando Valley was locked down during the overnight investigation.
Several people were injured as the crowd ran for cover, according to police. Details regarding the hospitalized victims' conditions were not immediately available.
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It was unclear how many officers opened fire.
Police recovered a weapon from the scene, Montgomery said.
"Any time anything like this happens at one of our city's entertainment centers, it's a tragedy," Montgomery said.
No arrests have been reported.
Universal CityWalk officials released a statement Monday afternoon, saying "As one of LA's most visited family destinations, CityWalk will continue to provide the most comprehensive security available.
"We are committed to the safety and security of our guests and are working closely with law enforcement as their investigation unfolds in this isolated incident."
NBC4's Willian Avila, Kim Baldonado and Jane Yamamoto contributed to this report.
