ANAHEIM, CA – Tragedy struck an Orange County apartment complex as a woman was fatally shot by her neighbor, who subsequently took his own life, authorities reported on Friday. The incident unfolded at approximately 3:40 p.m. on Thursday, April 25, prompting a swift response from Anaheim Police and Anaheim Fire & Rescue officers to the apartment complex situated at 891 S. State College Blvd.
Upon arrival, law enforcement discovered Ana Monterrosa, 59, of Anaheim, suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Monterrosa was swiftly transported to a local hospital, where she tragically succumbed to her injuries. The suspect, identified as 67-year-old Brian Lawrence, resided in the same complex as Monterrosa and was confirmed as the perpetrator before returning to his own apartment after the shooting.
Members of the SWAT team entered Lawrence’s residence at around 9:30 p.m. the same day to find his lifeless body. Police have determined Lawrence’s death as suicide. The precise nature of the relationship between Monterrosa and Lawrence has not been disclosed as the investigation continues.
Authorities urge anyone with pertinent information regarding the incident to come forward by contacting 714-765-1900 or reaching out to Orange County Crime Stoppers at 855-TIP-OCCS. The tragic events have left the community in shock and mourning, as the circumstances surrounding the incident continue to unfold and be investigated thoroughly.