The Los Angeles Police Department closed off streets in Venice on Tuesday afternoon and flew a helicopter overhead as they searched for a narcotics suspect who fought with two officers.
The incident started with a narcotics investigation around 2:45 p.m. near Rose and 3rd avenues that lead to a "physical altercation" between the suspect and two uniformed officers, said Capt. Jon Peters of the LAPD's Pacific Division at a command center near the back of Gold's Gym. There were no weapons used in the fight and the suspect broke free and fled northbound, Peters said.
Police had only limited information on the suspect.
One officer had scrapes and cuts on his elbows and knees and the other officer was reporting soreness to his neck, Peters said.
A reverse 911 call was issued to homes and businesses within the perimeter to let them know of the police activity, Peters said. Police also told residents over a PA system to stay in their homes until told it was safe to come out.
Traffic at Main Street and Rose Avenue was being diverted northbound at the perimeter's western boundary, while streets were closed from Marine Avenue to the north, 4th Avenue to the east and along Rose Avenue to the south.
A canine unit and three officers also were seen about 5:30 p.m. searching backyards behind the apartment buildings near Rose and Marine avenues.
(Editor's Note: Updated at 5:50 p.m. to add more details from the scene.)
