Shots Ring Out In Monrovia Bar; Man Dead, 2 Wounded
MONROVIA (CBSLA) – A 43-year-old man was killed and two others were wounded when shots were fired following an argument in a busy Monrovia bar at around midnight Friday.
The shooting occurred at the Gem City Grill in the 100 block of East Olive Avenue at approximately 12:01 a.m. Saturday.
Witnesses said the shooting was precipitated by an argument that escalated into a fight, the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department reports.
Witnesses said the suspect and his companions entered the bar just before midnight and got into a fight with some patrons.
The suspect, a Latino, then pulled out a gun and opened fire, hitting three men. The bar, which is known for hosting live music, was filled with patrons when the shots rang. Witnesses told CBS2 that some people ran into nearby businesses and apartments to take shelter as Monrovia police rushed to the scene and established a perimeter.
CBS2's Brittney Hopper spoke to one man who said the screaming drowned out the sound of the gunfire.
The suspect and his companions escaped. They ran from the bar and were seen fleeing west on Olive Avenue, LASD reports.
All three victims were taken to nearby hospitals, where one of them was pronounced dead. The other two men, both 24 years of age, are expected to survive. Their names were not released.
About two blocks from the scene, authorities cordoned off a home where they thought the shooting suspect was holed up. After several hours, and using a flash bang, officials determined the home was unoccupied.
Detectives said Saturday two had been arrested but the gunman remained at large.
Detectives believe the shooting was gang-related.
