A security guard was shot and killed early Wednesday at what police identified as a possible illegal gambling operation in a building in the Studio City area.
According to the LAPD, they received calls of a shooting just after 4 a.m. When they arrived they found a man who was slumped over.
Police said that two individuals entered the location armed with firearms and wearing ski masks. They confronted the security guard who was shot, then left out the back of the building.
The incident appears to have been a "botched robbery attempt," according to authorities. The two individuals escaped using the alley behind the building.
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"There is a two story, maybe a hookah lounge, on top and gambling in the bottom," said LAPD Detective Richard Moakley. "Looks like a poker house. Looks like there were 20 to 30 people inside who all fled."
Guy Lozano who works nearby says he is not surprised that a shooting took place at the location.
"We knew it was coming, we knew it was coming, it was a matter of time. You just see certain things come out of that building and it’s questionable," Lozano said.
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He said that the area nearby is usually quiet but that the club is known for having a lot of activity.
"You get somewhat of a crazy element that comes in and out from there at odd hours," Lozano said.
Police are trying to gather security camera footage from other businesses to help piece together what happened and identify those involved.
