LAPD release surveillance, bodycam video of a suspect shooting a BB gun at officers

On February 20, 2024, at around 8:40 p.m., Central Division patrol officers responded to a radio call for an “Assault with a Deadly Weapon” suspect at an apartment in the 400 block of East 5th Street. The comments of the call indicated that the suspect, later identified as 42-year-old Anthony Franks, threatened his neighbor with a gun.

Once officers arrived at the location, the Person Reporting (PR) informed the officers that Franks pointed a gun at her. During this brief interaction, Franks emerged from the doorway of his apartment with what appeared to be a pistol (later determined to be a Projectile Launcher). Franks pointed and fired the weapon at the officers and the PR, which resulted in an Officer-Involved Shooting.

Franks was not struck by gunfire and immediately retreated back into his apartment. Officers broadcast a “shots fired, officer needs help” call and additional officers responded to the scene.

After a brief standoff, telephone contact was made with Franks, and he was taken into custody without further incident.

Investigators released surveillance video from inside the apartment building showing Franks fire his weapon at the officers.

A weapon (in the appearance of a semi-automatic pistol) capable of firing .50 caliber rubber balls and a jar of .50 caliber rubber balls were recovered at the scene. Additionally, a Smith & Wesson 9mm semi-automatic handgun was also recovered from Franks’ apartment.

All items were booked as evidence.