LAPD involved in shooting with Arsen Zalyan amid illegal cannabis cultivation warrant

An officer-involved shooting has transpired in North Hollywood as stated by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), sparking an investigation by the department’s Force Investigation Division.
The incident, which took place early on September 2, unfolded when North Hollywood Gang Enforcement Detail and Narcotic Enforcement Detail officers were executing a search warrant related to illegal cannabis cultivation at a local residence.
Upon making verbal announcements and breaching the rear gate, 70-year-old Arsen Zalyan emerged from his home brandishing what appeared to be a rifle toward the officers which led to the officer-involved shooting, according to LAPD. Though Zalyan was not hit by gunfire, he momentarily retreated and then subsequently surrendered after being ordered by the officers who had moved back to the street for safety.
North Hollywood officers discovered roughly 240 pounds of cannabis but no other suspects or injuries to the community were reported.
The weapon, initially perceived as a threat, was later identified as an AEA .30 caliber semi-automatic airsoft carbine rifle. No actual shots were fired by the suspect. Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) teams were called to the scene following the incident, however, their search confirmed that Zalyan was the sole individual present at the residence.