Exester Avenue Shooting

On saturday March 24th, 2012, the 42 year old Michael Larkin opened fire with a Glock-17 9mm handgun just outside LCFD building on Exester Street. One civilian is shot and killed. Two firefighters were shot multiple times. Both men survived but were critically injured. A nearby policecar rushes to the scene. The patrol car is immediatly hit by gunfire from Larkin. The police officers duck for cover and shots are exchanged. More LCPD officers arrive on the scene. Once the newly appointed Counter Terrorism Squad arrived, Larkin steps into his car and races off towards the three tall appartment buildings on Vespucci Circus, East Holland. On his way to the west-tower, Larkin shoots two more people, whom both survive.

Chasing police officers quickly close in and surround the complex. Larkin enters the western tower, breaks into an appartment on the second floor and takes a family of three hostage. Members of the CTS attempt to enter. There is a short but heavy exchange of gunfire. Thirty minutes later, the hostages come running out in panic. They tell the officers that the gunman has barricaded himself in their bathroom. When the police investigate the room, they find Larkin inside. He has commited suicide.