Sirens echoed through the streets of Inglewood, California, on the afternoon of May 2, 2025, when a shooting disrupted the calm at Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology. Two women, employees of the institution, were critically injured in an attack that prompted a massive police response to search for the gunman, who remains at large.
The violence, which took place on a campus dedicated to training aviation professionals, stunned students and local residents. The incident, reported at 3:39 p.m. at 8911 Aviation Boulevard, triggered an immediate response from authorities, who cordoned off the area and conducted a thorough sweep of the premises.
The victims, transported in critical condition to a trauma center in Long Beach, are described as essential members of the college’s administrative staff. Below are some initial details about the case:
- The suspect, possibly an employee, was seen wearing a uniform resembling that of a security guard.
- A 9mm shell casing was recovered from the campus, indicating the use of a firearm.
- Police believe the shooter fled before security teams arrived.
Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts Jr. emphasized the severity of the incident, which raised concerns about safety in educational institutions. The search for the suspect continues, with authorities urging the community to provide any relevant information.
Immediate response from authorities
The response to the shooting at Spartan College was marked by swift and coordinated action. Inglewood Police Department teams arrived at the scene minutes after the initial call at 3:39 p.m. and launched a room-by-room search that lasted over an hour. Officers scoured classrooms and hallways, checking for additional victims or the gunman, who was reportedly armed with a rifle.
By around 5:15 p.m., police declared the campus clear but had no concrete leads on the suspect’s whereabouts. The Los Angeles County Fire Department also played a critical role, dispatching paramedics to provide immediate care to the victims. The two women, whose identities were not disclosed, received prompt treatment before being transferred to the hospital.
Mayor Butts, who closely monitored the operation, stressed the need for a thorough investigation. He revealed that authorities are reviewing security camera footage and collecting forensic evidence, such as the 9mm shell casing found at the scene. Police have also established a direct line for anonymous tips, encouraging witnesses to share any pertinent information.
GUNSHOT WOUND| FS171 | 8911 Aviation Blvd #Inglewood | #LACoFD units are currently assisting law enforcement with a shooting incident. 2 patients were transported to a local hospital.
— L.A. County Fire Department (@LACoFDPIO) May 3, 2025
Campus profile and community impact
Located just 1.5 kilometers from Los Angeles International Airport, Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology is a renowned institution offering programs in aviation maintenance and technology. With a capacity for around 500 students, the campus is a cornerstone of the region, attracting young people pursuing careers in the aviation industry.
The shooting, occurring in an environment where safety is paramount, sparked disbelief among students and staff. A student, who chose to remain anonymous, told local media that he and his classmates sheltered in a campus building for about 90 minutes, following police orders.
The Inglewood community, known for its resilience, now faces the challenge of addressing the psychological aftermath of the incident. Schools and colleges in the area have bolstered security measures, while community leaders are organizing meetings to discuss ways to support the victims and their families.
Some factors highlighting the shooting’s impact:
- Suspension of classes, with the campus closed for investigations.
- Increased police presence in the area, affecting local traffic.
- Mobilization of community groups to provide emotional support to students.
- Growing demand for discussions on campus safety policies.
History of violence in Inglewood
While Inglewood has seen a significant decline in crime rates over the past few decades, episodes of gun violence still occur, challenging local authorities’ efforts. In October 2023, a shooting in a parking lot left two dead and three injured, an incident Mayor Butts described as a targeted attack.
The Spartan College incident, however, stands out due to its occurrence in an educational setting, where such events are rare. Inglewood Police Department data shows that violent crimes in educational institutions account for less than 2% of incidents reported in the city between 2020 and 2024.
The suspect’s possible connection to the institution adds complexity to the case. Investigators are exploring whether the attack stemmed from internal conflicts, though no motive has been confirmed. Police are also reviewing employee records and interviewing colleagues of the victims to build a profile of the shooter.
Campus safety measures
Safety in educational institutions has been a recurring topic in the United States, particularly after school and university shootings. In California, state laws mandate that colleges implement emergency plans and conduct regular crisis response training.
At Spartan College, security protocols included alarm systems and surveillance cameras, but the shooting exposed vulnerabilities. Experts note that an internal attacker, such as the suspect described as a possible employee, poses an additional challenge to protection systems.
Some measures adopted by institutions following similar incidents:
- Annual training for students and staff on emergency response.
- Installation of automatic locking doors in classrooms.
- Hiring of armed security guards at larger campuses.
- Use of monitoring technologies, such as facial recognition.
- Partnerships with law enforcement for regular patrols.
Following the shooting, Spartan College announced a temporary suspension of in-person activities while evaluating ways to strengthen security. The institution is expected to implement new guidelines before reopening.
Witness accounts and campus atmosphere
Panic swept through Spartan College as soon as the first shots rang out. An instructor at the institution, who was in a nearby classroom, described the moment as chaotic. He recounted hearing gunfire while eating lunch, initially mistaking the sound for external noise.
Students sheltered during the police operation shared stories of fear and uncertainty. A student interviewed by ABC7 described the difficulty of staying calm while awaiting instructions from authorities. He expressed relief when police took control but voiced concern for his peers’ safety.
The campus atmosphere, once defined by the routine of practical and theoretical classes, has shifted to one of tension. Staff and students who knew the victims expressed solidarity, while the administration works to provide psychological support to those affected.
Efforts to identify the suspect
Inglewood police have focused efforts on identifying and apprehending the shooter, described as a man possibly linked to Spartan College. The detail that he wore a security guard-like uniform raised suspicions that he had detailed knowledge of the campus’s routine.
Investigators are reviewing entry and exit logs and analyzing footage from security cameras near Aviation Boulevard. The 9mm shell casing found at the scene is being examined for fingerprints or DNA that could lead to the suspect.
Mayor Butts reported that police identified a vehicle potentially linked to the shooter, a blue 2014 BMW registered in Monterey Park. Teams were dispatched to nearby areas, including Pico Union, about 16 kilometers from the campus, where an arrest related to the case was made around 6 p.m. It remains unclear whether the detainee is the shooter or an accomplice.
Community mobilization post-incident
The Inglewood community responded to the shooting with a mix of solidarity and outrage. Local leaders, including pastors and nonprofit representatives, began organizing vigils to support the victims and their families.
Schools near the campus, such as Westchester High School, strengthened security, with principals sending messages to reassure parents. Traffic around Aviation Boulevard was disrupted by police roadblocks, impacting residents and local businesses.
Some points raised by community leaders:
- The need for greater investment in violence prevention programs.
- The importance of providing psychological support to victims and witnesses.
- Calls for stricter laws on carrying firearms in public spaces.
- The creation of forums to discuss safety in educational institutions.
The community’s response reflects a desire to turn tragedy into an opportunity for structural change, though the immediate focus remains on the victims’ recovery and the suspect’s capture.
Context of gun violence in California
California, despite having some of the strictest gun control laws in the United States, is not immune to gun violence. Data from 2024 shows the state recorded over 1,500 firearms-related incidents, with approximately 600 deaths.
Shootings in educational settings, while less frequent, generate significant public outcry. A recent case in April 2025 at a North Carolina college left one dead and six injured, reigniting debates about campus safety.
In the Los Angeles area, Inglewood’s proximity to dense urban centers complicates efforts to curb violence. Local police collaborate with state and federal agencies to track illegal weapons and monitor criminal activity, but incidents like the one at Spartan College highlight the challenge of preventing isolated attacks.
Investigation progress
Inglewood authorities intensified the search for the shooter in the hours following the incident. Specialized teams were deployed to areas where the suspect might be hiding, while investigators analyze potential connections between the shooter and the victims.
The arrest in Pico Union, though significant, has not fully clarified the case. Police are withholding the detainee’s identity but indicate he may have critical information about the shooter’s whereabouts.
Spartan College announced the formation of an internal committee to review safety protocols and support the investigation. The institution is also in contact with the victims’ families, ensuring assistance during their recovery.
Some ongoing investigation steps:
- Analysis of security camera footage within a 5-kilometer radius of the campus.
- Interviews with staff and students present during the attack.
- Forensic examination of the 9mm shell casing for biological evidence.
- Tracking of the blue BMW vehicle potentially linked to the suspect.
- Cooperation with regional agencies to expand the search for the shooter.
Police reiterated their commitment to keeping the community informed but requested patience as the investigation progresses. The case remains open, with authorities working tirelessly to ensure the responsible party is brought to justice.

Sirens echoed through the streets of Inglewood, California, on the afternoon of May 2, 2025, when a shooting disrupted the calm at Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology. Two women, employees of the institution, were critically injured in an attack that prompted a massive police response to search for the gunman, who remains at large.
The violence, which took place on a campus dedicated to training aviation professionals, stunned students and local residents. The incident, reported at 3:39 p.m. at 8911 Aviation Boulevard, triggered an immediate response from authorities, who cordoned off the area and conducted a thorough sweep of the premises.
The victims, transported in critical condition to a trauma center in Long Beach, are described as essential members of the college’s administrative staff. Below are some initial details about the case:
- The suspect, possibly an employee, was seen wearing a uniform resembling that of a security guard.
- A 9mm shell casing was recovered from the campus, indicating the use of a firearm.
- Police believe the shooter fled before security teams arrived.
Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts Jr. emphasized the severity of the incident, which raised concerns about safety in educational institutions. The search for the suspect continues, with authorities urging the community to provide any relevant information.
Immediate response from authorities
The response to the shooting at Spartan College was marked by swift and coordinated action. Inglewood Police Department teams arrived at the scene minutes after the initial call at 3:39 p.m. and launched a room-by-room search that lasted over an hour. Officers scoured classrooms and hallways, checking for additional victims or the gunman, who was reportedly armed with a rifle.
By around 5:15 p.m., police declared the campus clear but had no concrete leads on the suspect’s whereabouts. The Los Angeles County Fire Department also played a critical role, dispatching paramedics to provide immediate care to the victims. The two women, whose identities were not disclosed, received prompt treatment before being transferred to the hospital.
Mayor Butts, who closely monitored the operation, stressed the need for a thorough investigation. He revealed that authorities are reviewing security camera footage and collecting forensic evidence, such as the 9mm shell casing found at the scene. Police have also established a direct line for anonymous tips, encouraging witnesses to share any pertinent information.
GUNSHOT WOUND| FS171 | 8911 Aviation Blvd #Inglewood | #LACoFD units are currently assisting law enforcement with a shooting incident. 2 patients were transported to a local hospital.
— L.A. County Fire Department (@LACoFDPIO) May 3, 2025
Campus profile and community impact
Located just 1.5 kilometers from Los Angeles International Airport, Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology is a renowned institution offering programs in aviation maintenance and technology. With a capacity for around 500 students, the campus is a cornerstone of the region, attracting young people pursuing careers in the aviation industry.
The shooting, occurring in an environment where safety is paramount, sparked disbelief among students and staff. A student, who chose to remain anonymous, told local media that he and his classmates sheltered in a campus building for about 90 minutes, following police orders.
The Inglewood community, known for its resilience, now faces the challenge of addressing the psychological aftermath of the incident. Schools and colleges in the area have bolstered security measures, while community leaders are organizing meetings to discuss ways to support the victims and their families.
Some factors highlighting the shooting’s impact:
- Suspension of classes, with the campus closed for investigations.
- Increased police presence in the area, affecting local traffic.
- Mobilization of community groups to provide emotional support to students.
- Growing demand for discussions on campus safety policies.
History of violence in Inglewood
While Inglewood has seen a significant decline in crime rates over the past few decades, episodes of gun violence still occur, challenging local authorities’ efforts. In October 2023, a shooting in a parking lot left two dead and three injured, an incident Mayor Butts described as a targeted attack.
The Spartan College incident, however, stands out due to its occurrence in an educational setting, where such events are rare. Inglewood Police Department data shows that violent crimes in educational institutions account for less than 2% of incidents reported in the city between 2020 and 2024.
The suspect’s possible connection to the institution adds complexity to the case. Investigators are exploring whether the attack stemmed from internal conflicts, though no motive has been confirmed. Police are also reviewing employee records and interviewing colleagues of the victims to build a profile of the shooter.
Campus safety measures
Safety in educational institutions has been a recurring topic in the United States, particularly after school and university shootings. In California, state laws mandate that colleges implement emergency plans and conduct regular crisis response training.
At Spartan College, security protocols included alarm systems and surveillance cameras, but the shooting exposed vulnerabilities. Experts note that an internal attacker, such as the suspect described as a possible employee, poses an additional challenge to protection systems.
Some measures adopted by institutions following similar incidents:
- Annual training for students and staff on emergency response.
- Installation of automatic locking doors in classrooms.
- Hiring of armed security guards at larger campuses.
- Use of monitoring technologies, such as facial recognition.
- Partnerships with law enforcement for regular patrols.
Following the shooting, Spartan College announced a temporary suspension of in-person activities while evaluating ways to strengthen security. The institution is expected to implement new guidelines before reopening.
Witness accounts and campus atmosphere
Panic swept through Spartan College as soon as the first shots rang out. An instructor at the institution, who was in a nearby classroom, described the moment as chaotic. He recounted hearing gunfire while eating lunch, initially mistaking the sound for external noise.
Students sheltered during the police operation shared stories of fear and uncertainty. A student interviewed by ABC7 described the difficulty of staying calm while awaiting instructions from authorities. He expressed relief when police took control but voiced concern for his peers’ safety.
The campus atmosphere, once defined by the routine of practical and theoretical classes, has shifted to one of tension. Staff and students who knew the victims expressed solidarity, while the administration works to provide psychological support to those affected.
Efforts to identify the suspect
Inglewood police have focused efforts on identifying and apprehending the shooter, described as a man possibly linked to Spartan College. The detail that he wore a security guard-like uniform raised suspicions that he had detailed knowledge of the campus’s routine.
Investigators are reviewing entry and exit logs and analyzing footage from security cameras near Aviation Boulevard. The 9mm shell casing found at the scene is being examined for fingerprints or DNA that could lead to the suspect.
Mayor Butts reported that police identified a vehicle potentially linked to the shooter, a blue 2014 BMW registered in Monterey Park. Teams were dispatched to nearby areas, including Pico Union, about 16 kilometers from the campus, where an arrest related to the case was made around 6 p.m. It remains unclear whether the detainee is the shooter or an accomplice.
Community mobilization post-incident
The Inglewood community responded to the shooting with a mix of solidarity and outrage. Local leaders, including pastors and nonprofit representatives, began organizing vigils to support the victims and their families.
Schools near the campus, such as Westchester High School, strengthened security, with principals sending messages to reassure parents. Traffic around Aviation Boulevard was disrupted by police roadblocks, impacting residents and local businesses.
Some points raised by community leaders:
- The need for greater investment in violence prevention programs.
- The importance of providing psychological support to victims and witnesses.
- Calls for stricter laws on carrying firearms in public spaces.
- The creation of forums to discuss safety in educational institutions.
The community’s response reflects a desire to turn tragedy into an opportunity for structural change, though the immediate focus remains on the victims’ recovery and the suspect’s capture.
Context of gun violence in California
California, despite having some of the strictest gun control laws in the United States, is not immune to gun violence. Data from 2024 shows the state recorded over 1,500 firearms-related incidents, with approximately 600 deaths.
Shootings in educational settings, while less frequent, generate significant public outcry. A recent case in April 2025 at a North Carolina college left one dead and six injured, reigniting debates about campus safety.
In the Los Angeles area, Inglewood’s proximity to dense urban centers complicates efforts to curb violence. Local police collaborate with state and federal agencies to track illegal weapons and monitor criminal activity, but incidents like the one at Spartan College highlight the challenge of preventing isolated attacks.
Investigation progress
Inglewood authorities intensified the search for the shooter in the hours following the incident. Specialized teams were deployed to areas where the suspect might be hiding, while investigators analyze potential connections between the shooter and the victims.
The arrest in Pico Union, though significant, has not fully clarified the case. Police are withholding the detainee’s identity but indicate he may have critical information about the shooter’s whereabouts.
Spartan College announced the formation of an internal committee to review safety protocols and support the investigation. The institution is also in contact with the victims’ families, ensuring assistance during their recovery.
Some ongoing investigation steps:
- Analysis of security camera footage within a 5-kilometer radius of the campus.
- Interviews with staff and students present during the attack.
- Forensic examination of the 9mm shell casing for biological evidence.
- Tracking of the blue BMW vehicle potentially linked to the suspect.
- Cooperation with regional agencies to expand the search for the shooter.
Police reiterated their commitment to keeping the community informed but requested patience as the investigation progresses. The case remains open, with authorities working tirelessly to ensure the responsible party is brought to justice.
