INGLEWOOD, Calif. — A tragic incident unfolded at the Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology on Friday afternoon, where two female employees were shot on campus. Authorities have characterized the shooting as an act of workplace violence, allegedly involving a former employee of the institution. The local community is grappling with the shock of the event as further details emerge.
The shooting occurred around 4 p.m. within an office at the college, located just southwest of Los Angeles. Inglewood Mayor James Butts reported that one of the victims was in critical condition as they were transported to a local hospital. Eyewitness accounts and aerial footage revealed significant police activity outside the college shortly after the incident, highlighting the urgency of the developing situation.
Law enforcement officials detained a male suspect linked to the shooting following an initial flight from the scene. Officers from the Los Angeles Police Department apprehended the individual from a vehicle described by the Inglewood Police Department. The specific motivations for the attack have not yet been disclosed, and authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the event.
In response to the shooting, the campus was placed on lockdown for approximately one hour to ensure the safety of students and staff. Chris Becker, the college president and chief administrator, emphasized the school’s commitment to safety, noting that it is regularly patrolled and maintains a supportive environment for its community.
“This is a peaceful campus,” Becker stated. “We pride ourselves on being a close-knit community of students, teachers, and staff.” His remarks resonate with the sentiments of many at the college, who are now coping with the aftermath of this unsettling incident.
The Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology, which has multiple campuses nationwide, serves around 500 students at its Inglewood location. Situated about a mile from Los Angeles International Airport, the college specializes in training programs focused on aviation maintenance technology. As students and faculty members process the events, the institution remains dedicated to fostering a secure atmosphere for learning.
Community leaders and local authorities are expected to hold discussions in the coming days to address concerns and ensure that resources are available for those affected. As the investigation continues, the Inglewood community is left to reflect on the need for resilience in the face of tragedy.