Long Beach, California – A man was allegedly robbed early Saturday morning in Long Beach by a 15-year-old boy armed with a handgun, an incident that escalated into a physical struggle and a gunshot but left no injuries, according to police.
The suspect was arrested shortly after the incident, and officers recovered a firearm, authorities confirmed.
Incident Occurred During Early Morning Police Response
According to the Long Beach Police Department, officers were already in the area responding to an unrelated battery call when they observed the robbery taking place nearby.
Police said officers were dispatched at approximately 1:35 a.m. on January 3 to the area of Broadway and Tribune Court. While handling that call, officers noticed a robbery unfolding in close proximity.
Physical Altercation Led to Gunfire
During the robbery, investigators say a physical confrontation occurred between the victim and the teenage suspect.
In a statement released by police, authorities said:
“During the robbery, a physical altercation occurred and the suspect fired the gun. The suspect fled the scene as officers arrived. No injuries were reported.”
Despite the discharge of the firearm, neither the victim nor any bystanders were struck, police said.
Suspect Detained Nearby, Firearm Recovered
After fleeing the scene on foot, the suspect was located and arrested nearby, according to police. Officers recovered a firearm believed to have been used during the robbery.
Authorities have not released details about the type of firearm recovered or whether it was legally owned. Because the suspect is a juvenile, police also did not disclose his name.
Charges and Juvenile Justice Process
Officials did not immediately announce formal charges, noting that the investigation remains ongoing. In California, juvenile suspects involved in violent crimes are typically processed through the juvenile justice system, where outcomes differ significantly from adult criminal proceedings.
Possible charges in cases like this can include robbery, assault with a firearm, and discharging a firearm, depending on prosecutorial review and evidence.
No Injuries Reported Despite Gunshot
Police emphasized that no injuries were reported, a detail authorities described as fortunate given the presence of a firearm and the time of night.
Residents in the area were not ordered to shelter in place, and there was no broader threat to the public following the arrest.
Area Context and Public Safety Concerns
The intersection of Broadway and Tribune Court is located in a mixed residential and commercial area of Long Beach, where late-night foot traffic can still be present during weekends.
Incidents involving juveniles and firearms continue to raise concerns for law enforcement agencies across Southern California, particularly regarding access to weapons and youth violence during overnight hours.
Law enforcement officials routinely urge parents and guardians to secure firearms properly and to monitor youth behavior, especially during late-night hours when crimes are statistically more likely to occur.
Police Continue Investigation
The Long Beach Police Department said detectives are continuing to review evidence and interview witnesses. Anyone who may have seen the incident or has additional information is encouraged to contact local authorities.
Officials did not indicate whether surveillance footage from nearby businesses or residences is being reviewed but noted that such evidence is commonly examined in investigations of this nature.
Community Reminder
Police reminded residents to remain aware of their surroundings, avoid confrontations when possible, and report suspicious activity immediately.
While this incident ended without injuries, authorities stressed that any situation involving a firearm presents extreme risk and can escalate unpredictably.
Conclusion
A 15-year-old suspect is in custody after allegedly robbing a man at gunpoint in Long Beach early Saturday morning, firing a shot during a struggle before fleeing the scene. Thanks to a nearby police presence, the suspect was arrested quickly, and a firearm was recovered. No injuries were reported, and the investigation remains ongoing.
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