Los Angeles police are searching for a suspect after a gunman killed two people during a private party at a Northridge event space near California State University, Northridge, late Friday night on October 2, 2026. The deadly violence unfolded at a strip mall complex in the 18000 block of Nordhoff Street, near Reseda Boulevard.
Officers with the Los Angeles Police Department responded to a 911 call regarding a loud party with a large crowd at the Artist Lounge venue around 11 p.m. According to authorities, between 100 and 200 people, many of them teenagers and young adults, were packed into the second-floor venue space when law enforcement arrived.
Officers Hear Gunshots While Shutting Down Party
LAPD Officer Norma Eisenman stated that responding officers contacted event organizers and were shutting down the crowded gathering due to noise complaints when multiple gunshots suddenly rang out. Cellphone video captured by attendees showed chaos erupting inside the venue as partygoers ducked for cover, scrambled to find exits, and panicked while the music abruptly stopped.
Witnesses reported seeing a male suspect draw a handgun from his waistline and open fire. "This guy pulls out a gun from his waist, and just goes at one person, boom, and then he turns around to get another guy," one witness described to local reporters.
First responders quickly entered the banquet hall and discovered two victims suffering from severe gunshot wounds. Both victims-identified by police updates as an 18-year-old Black male and a 19-year-old Hispanic female-were pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics. Authorities searched the surrounding area for a reported third wounded individual, but no other injured victims were located.
Manhunt Underway and Investigation Details
In the immediate aftermath of the shooting, AIR7 footage and eyewitness accounts showed dozens of young party attendees being temporarily detained, searched, and zip-tied by police outside the strip mall before being released after questioning. Investigators are reviewing security camera footage from nearby businesses and interviewing witnesses to piece together a clear motive for the attack.
Police have not yet released a detailed physical description of the gunman, though search efforts remain active. The second-floor strip mall location houses local businesses including Ciel Nail Spa and the Artist Lounge event space.
The management of the Artist Lounge released a public statement expressing deep sorrow over the tragedy, offering thoughts and prayers to the victims’ grieving families. Organizers have also planned community prayer vigils and online fundraising campaigns to support the families affected by the violence.
How to Provide Tips to LAPD
Law enforcement officials are urging anyone with information, cellphone footage, or details regarding the identity and whereabouts of the suspect to come forward immediately.
- Contact the LAPD’s Robbery-Homicide Division directly at 818-374-9550.
- Call non-business hours or weekend lines at 310-726-7700 or 877-527-3247.
- Provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or online via lacrimestoppers.org.
