Los Angeles, California – California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced that no criminal charges will be filed against an LAPD officer involved in the fatal shooting of 14-year-old Valentina Orellana-Peralta at a North Hollywood Burlington store in December 2021. The tragic incident occurred when Valentina was struck by gunfire inside a changing room as the officer fired at an assault suspect who had entered the store.
Valentina, who was shopping with her mother at the store on Victory Boulevard, was trying on holiday dresses in the changing room when she was hit by a bullet that ricocheted off the floor. Despite efforts to save her, she tragically succumbed to her injuries in her mother’s arms.
After a thorough investigation by the Attorney General’s office, it was determined that there was insufficient evidence to support criminal charges against the officer. The report highlighted the challenging nature of the case, emphasizing the loss of two lives and expressing condolences to Valentina’s family.
The incident unfolded when a 24-year-old man, armed with a metal bike lock and wanted in connection with a series of assaults, entered the store. Body-camera footage released by the LAPD showed the suspect attacking a woman with the bike lock before officers intervened. The suspect was confronted by officers and fatally shot after refusing to comply with commands.
Despite initial concerns raised by activists about the use of force, the investigation concluded that the officer acted to defend himself and others from perceived imminent danger. The officers involved were not aware that the dressing room was occupied during the encounter.
Valentina, a student at High Tech Los Angeles Charter School, had recently passed her math and physics exams prior to the tragic incident. Following the shooting, her family filed a lawsuit against the city, seeking justice for Valentina’s untimely death.
Moving forward, the LAPD has been advised to review its protocols and communication strategies in handling similar high-stress situations. The Police Commission also found that the officer involved had violated departmental policy, emphasizing the need for improved training and assessment of potential threats in future encounters.