Why Jillian Lauren, wife of Weezer bassist, was shot by Los Angeles police? Newly released bodycam footage sheds light

In a recent event that has gained public attention subsequently, author Jillian Lauren, who is wife to Weezer bassist Scott Shriner, was struck by Los Angeles police outside of her residence this year. Just-released LAPD body camera footage provides an infinitely clearer impression of what ensued leading up to the confrontation and shooting.

According to LAist, TPR, and KPBS, the incident was significantly unrelated to a local disturbance, as some initial rumors had indicated. Rather, it occurred during a police search for hit-and-run suspects who had run into the Eagle Rock neighborhood — the same neighborhood where Lauren resides.

What started it all: A search for hit-and-run suspects

As per LAist and TPR, on January 29, 2024, three people who allegedly ran from a misdemeanor hit-and-run collision were being pursued by LAPD officers. The suspects ditched their car and dispersed on foot into the surrounding Eagle Rock neighborhood. The officers established a perimeter to attempt to capture them.

As part of this search mission, officers ran into Jillian Lauren in her front yard. Bodycam and official police accounts indicate that Lauren was found carrying a handgun — a find which immediately escalated tensions.

What the bodycam footage reveals — and what it doesn't

Released footage gives vital insight into the interaction. Officers are heard shouting at Lauren to put down the handgun several times. The footage depicts her holding and handling the gun, but does not record the moment she fires a shot.

Nevertheless, the officers' belief that Lauren was a threat with the gun led them to respond with lethal force. Authorities have clarified that the choice to fire was influenced by the perceived threat, and not by a confirmed firing of the weapon.

As per The Hollywood Reporter,

"Ma’am, we’re trying to help you. Put the gun down,” someone is heard saying. “You’re going to get shot. It’s the police.”

“Oh, she racked it,” said another voice before the spund of the gunshot was heard.

The encounter: Commands, a handgun, and split-second decisions

According to the reports from LAist, TPR, KPBS, and IMDb, the bodycam footage indicated officers giving repeated commands for Lauren to drop the weapon. Lauren did not obey these orders immediately.

LAPD officers reported that Lauren pointed the handgun at them, presenting what they felt was an immediate threat. In response, the officers fired. There is no suggestion from the video or official accounts of the deployment of a Taser or other non-lethal means in this encounter.

According to KPBS,

"The officers ordered Shriner to drop the handgun numerous times; however, she refused. Shriner then pointed the handgun at the officers, and an Officer-Involved Shooting occurred."

Aftermath: Injuries, arrest, and legal proceedings

LAist and TPR also report that Jillian Lauren was hit by gunfire but fortunately suffered only non-life-threatening injuries. Medical aid was provided on the spot before she was rushed to the hospital for further investigation.

Lauren was booked and arrested upon recovery on suspicion of trying to kill a peace officer. Lauren was later released on bail and is waiting to be heard in court for the charges.

The Los Angeles police shooting of Jillian Lauren was the consequence of a set of tense episodes during an active pursuit of suspects in a hit-and-run attack, not during a domestic disagreement. Officers saw Lauren with a handgun, called out multiple instructions for her to disarm, and fired when they felt she made a direct threat.

The video does not record Lauren firing her weapon. Legal action continues, and the case is subject to close public and legal examination.

Also read: Weezer bassist Scott Shriner's wife Jillian Lauren was diagnosed with cancer a month before she was shot by police

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