Los Angeles police are investigating the deaths of four family members found inside a North Hills home, including a newborn baby and a 2-year-old child. Detectives believe the incident was a murder-suicide, according to law enforcement officials familiar with the investigation.
The tragedy unfolded Wednesday evening in a residential neighborhood in the San Fernando Valley, where officers responding to a call discovered two adults and two young children dead from gunshot wounds.
Discovery
Officers from the Los Angeles Police Department’s Devonshire Division were dispatched to a home in the 16000 block of Londelius Street at approximately 7:50 p.m. Wednesday.
Upon entering the residence, officers found four deceased individuals inside the home. The victims included two adults and two children.
Due to the nature of the incident and the number of fatalities involved, detectives from the LAPD’s Robbery-Homicide Division assumed responsibility for the investigation.
LAPD Capt. Mike Bland described the incident as a devastating event and confirmed that investigators do not believe there is an ongoing threat to the public.
Victims
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner identified three of the victims as:
| Victim | Age |
|---|---|
| Ella Basmajian | 6 days old |
| Alec Basmajian | 2 years old |
| Khajag Basmajian | 31 |
| Adult Female | Name withheld pending family notification |
Officials said the woman, believed to be in her 30s, has not yet been publicly identified because family notification procedures are still being completed.
The deaths of the two young children, including a newborn who was only six days old, have deeply affected the local community.
Investigation
According to law enforcement sources, preliminary evidence gathered at the scene suggests the mother may have shot the other family members before taking her own life.
Authorities emphasized that the investigation remains active and that detectives continue to examine physical evidence and other information collected from the residence.
Officials have not released details about the firearm involved or discussed whether there were prior reports of domestic disturbances at the home.
Capt. Bland stated that investigators do not believe there are any suspects outstanding and that current evidence points toward a murder-suicide.
As with all death investigations, final conclusions will depend on the completion of forensic examinations and additional investigative findings.
Community Response
The incident has shocked neighbors in the normally quiet North Hills neighborhood.
Resident Karen Banuelos told reporters that she noticed unusual activity when police arrived but did not hear any gunshots before the response.
According to Banuelos, she observed family members outside the residence visibly distressed as officers entered the home.
She said it became apparent that the situation was not an active emergency when officers were no longer rushing to locate a suspect or provide medical aid.
The tragedy has prompted expressions of grief throughout the community as residents try to process the loss of an entire family.
Mental Health Context
Following the deaths, some community members referenced the challenges families can face after the birth of a child.
While investigators have not publicly discussed any medical or mental health history related to the case, experts caution against drawing conclusions before official findings are released.
Postpartum mental health conditions can vary widely in severity and require professional evaluation and diagnosis. Authorities have not confirmed whether any such condition played a role in this incident.
Mental health professionals often stress the importance of recognizing warning signs and seeking support when individuals or family members experience emotional distress following major life events.
Ongoing Review
Detectives and forensic specialists continue to examine evidence collected from the home as part of the investigation.
Authorities are expected to review witness statements, forensic findings, medical examiner reports, and other information before providing additional details about the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Case Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | North Hills, Los Angeles |
| Date Discovered | Wednesday Evening |
| Response Time | Approximately 7:50 p.m. |
| Victims | Four Family Members |
| Children Among Victims | Two |
| Youngest Victim | 6-Day-Old Infant |
| Investigating Agency | LAPD Robbery-Homicide Division |
| Suspects Outstanding | None Reported |
| Case Status | Active Investigation |
The deaths of four members of the Basmajian family have left relatives, neighbors, and investigators searching for answers. While preliminary evidence has led detectives to believe the incident was a murder-suicide, authorities continue to examine all available evidence before reaching final conclusions. As the investigation moves forward, the focus remains on understanding what happened and providing answers to those affected by the tragedy.
FAQs
Where did the incident occur?
In North Hills, Los Angeles.
How many people died?
Four family members were found dead.
Who is investigating the case?
LAPD’s Robbery-Homicide Division.
Were there any suspects at large?
No, police said there are none.
What is the current theory?
Detectives believe it was a murder-suicide.
