Gunman Injures Two at Spartan College Campus \ Newslooks \ Washington DC \ Mary Sidiqi \ Evening Edition \ Two women were shot at the Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology in Inglewood, California, in what officials say was a case of workplace violence. Authorities believe the shooter is a former employee. One victim is in critical condition, and the campus was briefly locked down after the incident.
Quick Looks
- Two female employees were shot Friday at Spartan College in Inglewood.
- Authorities suspect the shooter is a former employee of the school.
- One woman is in critical condition; both were hospitalized.
- The Los Angeles County Fire Department confirmed the injuries on X.
- Campus went into lockdown for at least an hour after the incident.
- Aerial footage showed a large police response outside the campus.
- School president emphasized the normally peaceful nature of the campus.
- Campus offers aviation maintenance training and serves 500 students.
- Incident is being investigated as a workplace violence case.
- Inglewood campus is located near Los Angeles International Airport.
Deep Look
A violent workplace shooting on Friday at the Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology in Inglewood, California, left two female employees hospitalized and one of them critically injured, authorities confirmed. The afternoon incident shattered the peace of a campus known for aviation training and prompted a swift law enforcement response and a temporary lockdown.
According to Inglewood Mayor James Butts, the suspect in the shooting is believed to be a former employee of the college, suggesting the motive was rooted in workplace conflict rather than random violence. The shooting occurred around 4 p.m. inside an office area on the campus grounds. While the identity of the suspect and victims has not been released, officials have indicated the investigation is focused on a targeted act of violence rather than a broader threat to students or the public.
The Los Angeles County Fire Department confirmed that two victims were transported to a nearby hospital. Mayor Butts added that one of the victims is currently in critical condition, heightening concern and urgency as authorities continue to piece together what led to the shooting.
Aerial footage from local television stations showed a heavy police presence outside the Inglewood campus, which is located just over a mile from Los Angeles International Airport. The school immediately went into lockdown, with law enforcement sweeping the area to ensure there was no continued threat. The lockdown lasted for over an hour as investigators secured the scene and began collecting witness accounts.
Chris Becker, president and chief administrator of the Inglewood campus, spoke to KABC-TV, expressing shock and dismay over the violence. “It’s a peaceful campus,” he said. “It’s a nice community of students and teachers and staff.” Becker emphasized that safety is a priority, especially given the nature of the school’s training in aviation maintenance, which requires strict compliance with safety protocols.
The Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology, a nationally recognized institution with multiple campuses across the United States, specializes in aviation and technical training. The Inglewood campus serves approximately 500 students, with programs focused on aviation maintenance technology—a discipline that demands both hands-on mechanical expertise and strong adherence to safety standards.
While school shootings have become an unfortunate reality across the U.S., incidents categorized as workplace violence on educational campuses are less common. This event highlights the complex interplay between professional disputes and public safety, particularly when institutions of learning also serve as workplaces for faculty and administrative staff.
Workplace violence remains a persistent threat in both public and private sectors. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), nearly 2 million American workers report being victims of workplace violence each year. In schools, conflicts between employees—especially following terminations or disciplinary actions—can escalate into physical confrontations with devastating consequences.
In the wake of the incident, students, staff, and community members are left grappling with fear and uncertainty. While the school will likely enhance security and reassess workplace policies, local officials and crisis response teams are expected to provide support services and counseling to those affected.
The incident is currently under active investigation. Authorities have not yet released details about the weapon used, whether the suspect is in custody, or what specific grievances may have led to the attack. Officials have urged the public to avoid speculation and await further verified information.
The Inglewood community, known for its proximity to major Los Angeles landmarks and institutions, has increasingly invested in education and vocational training as a pathway to economic growth. Incidents like this threaten to undermine that progress and underscore the broader issue of gun violence in workplace environments.
As more details emerge, the focus will inevitably shift to accountability, prevention, and healing. Whether through enhanced background checks, mental health resources, or improved conflict resolution mechanisms in workplaces, events like these continue to fuel the national conversation about how to protect Americans not just in public spaces, but where they work and serve others.
Gunman Injures Two Gunman Injures Two Gunman Injures Two
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