High-Speed Pursuit Ends in Fatal Shootout at California In-N-Out Burger

High-Speed Pursuit Ends in Fatal Shootout at California In-N-Out Burger

LAGUNA HILLS, Calif. — A suspected murderer was killed in a dramatic police shootout outside an In-N-Out Burger early Saturday morning, following a high-speed chase across southern California.

Authorities say the violence began around 10 p.m. Friday, when the suspect fatally shot a woman in the parking lot of a Carlsbad apartment complex before hijacking her Kia Sorrento. Law enforcement agencies were quickly alerted, and the victim’s license plate was circulated to nearby departments.

Shortly after midnight, officers in Laguna Beach spotted the stolen vehicle. Around 12:45 a.m., Newport Beach police attempted a traffic stop, but the suspect fled, sparking a multi-agency pursuit through Orange County.

The chase came to a deadly end around 1 a.m. when the driver crashed into a business complex that houses an In-N-Out Burger in Laguna Hills. Jumping from the vehicle, the suspect immediately opened fire on police with a semiautomatic handgun.

Harrowing video obtained by KTLA showed terrified restaurant patrons diving under tables and running for cover as dozens of gunshots rang out. Officers returned fire, striking the suspect, who was treated at the scene and transported to a hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

No officers were injured in the exchange of gunfire. Authorities have not yet released the suspect’s identity.

Investigators are now urging witnesses, especially those who captured video or photos during the incident, to come forward. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Orange County Crime Stoppers at 1-855-TIP-OCCS.