Los Angeles, California – Valentina Orellana Peralta tragically lost her life at the age of 14 while innocently shopping with her mother. The incident occurred during a police-involved shooting in December 2021, when a stray bullet fired by a Los Angeles police officer struck her.
In a recent report released by the California Department of Justice, it was announced that the officer responsible for the fatal shooting will not face criminal charges. The state DOJ cited “insufficient evidence” for prosecuting the officer after a thorough investigation into the incident. However, they recommended that the LAPD improve communication protocols in response to similar scenarios to prevent such tragedies in the future.
The shooting took place at a North Hollywood Burlington Coat Factory, where officers responded to a report of an active shooter. The suspect, identified as 24-year-old Daniel Elena Lopez, was shot and killed by an officer after attacking shoppers with a bike lock. Orellana Peralta, hiding in a dressing room, was hit by a bullet that ricocheted off the floor, penetrating through the wall.
Surveillance footage and witness accounts confirmed that the suspect did not possess a gun during the incident. California Attorney General Rob Bonta expressed condolences to Orellana Peralta’s family, acknowledging the heartbreaking loss incurred by an innocent bystander caught in the crossfire.
Despite the tragedy, the evidence presented did not establish beyond a reasonable doubt that the officer acted without the intent to defend against imminent danger. As a result, no criminal charges will be pursued against the officer involved in the shooting.
The LAPD and the victim’s family have yet to comment on the DOJ’s decision. Orellana Peralta’s father, Juan Pablo Orellana Larenas, has been vocal about seeking justice for his daughter since the devastating loss. The young teen had only recently moved to the United States with her mother, making the incident even more heart-wrenching for her family.
The memorial set up in honor of Valentina Orellana Peralta outside the Burlington store serves as a reminder of the tragic consequences of the shooting. The LAPD expressed deep regret for the innocent victim’s loss and vowed to prevent such incidents from happening in the future through improved procedures and training. As the community mourns the loss of a young life, the call for justice for Valentina Orellana Peralta remains fervent.