No Gunman, Hostages Found After Homeboy Industries Scare

CHINATOWN (CBSLA.com) — Business will return to normal Friday at Homeboy Industries after a hostage scare overnight.

The Los Angeles Police Department was dispatched to the business' headquarters, located in the 100 block of Bruno Street in Chinatown, around 10:30 p.m. Thursday after employees called to say they were being held hostage, officials said.

Officers quickly responded to the scene and cleared the building.

After reviewing surveillance video, police said an ex-employee walked into the Homegirl Café looking for a former co-worker who was not present.

The suspect then slashed the worker's tires.

Employees weren't sure if the suspect was still on the premises so they called police. Video later showed he left prior to officers' arrival.

The suspect has been identified and is wanted on vandalism charges.

Homeboy Industries employs men and women who used to be in gangs, ex-cons and other criminals in programs that rehabilitate, including tattoo removal, employment services and counseling. Homeboy Industries also makes several products including chips and salsa.