Authorities say a man walked into the police department in the 200 block of South First Street at about 7:30 a.m. carrying a black backpack. He did not respond to front desk questions asking why he was there.
As more police officers were called to the front desk, he remained nonresponsive. Police say several languages were used to communicate with the man. Detectives say police were concerned the man either had mental problems or was under the influence of drugs.
Five minutes later, the man opened his backpack and pulled out a 12-inch knife. Three officers opened fire, killing him.
The suspect was declared dead at the scene, according to Ed Winter of the L.A. County Coroner's Office. His name has not been released.
The L.A. County Sheriff's Department is assisting in the investigation.
