It was not immediately clear how many agents from the DEA's Los Angeles Field Division Special Response Team opened fire in the confrontation, which the agency said occurred about 3:45 a.m. in the 5000 block of Nora Lynn Drive.
The suspect was pronounced dead at the scene, a DEA spokesperson said.
The deceased individual's identity and a description of the weapon were not immediately disclosed.
The shooting will be investigated by the Los Angeles Police Department's Robbery-Homicide Division, officials said.