What could have easily turned into a mass shooting was narrowly avoided Monday afternoon when Shayne Suffern, a heavily armed man, was arrested outside a Cheesecake Factory in Canoga Park. The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed that Suffern was carrying an AR-15-style rifle, 13 fully loaded 40-round magazines, and 200 rounds of ammunition during a disturbing and random act of violence that has left the community shaken.
The incident unfolded just before 12:30 p.m., when officers responded to reports of a possible shooting or stabbing near the restaurant. Upon arrival, police discovered a female victim inside a bathroom suffering from a stab wound to her shoulder. The woman had reportedly been targeted after attempting to flee the armed assailant and return to retrieve her 2-year-old child, who was still in a stroller.
Suffern allegedly fired multiple rounds from his AR-15 rifle at the woman but missed. When she came back for her daughter, he stabbed her in the shoulder. Authorities have confirmed that the victim and suspect had no prior relationship, indicating that the attack was entirely unprovoked.
Investigators uncovered "manifesto-style writings" in Suffern’s possession, though none of the documents referenced a specific target or incident. According to LAPD Sgt. Stewart, the writings contained disturbing themes of hatred directed at women and children, reinforcing the notion that the act was not only random but ideologically driven.
Suffern now faces two counts of attempted murder, and authorities say the situation could have escalated much further had he not been stopped in time. “We got lucky this was not a mass shooting,” said Stewart. The LAPD is continuing its investigation and reviewing surveillance footage, witness statements, and digital evidence to build the case.
This chilling incident in Canoga Park is yet another reminder that violent attacks—especially those involving firearms—can happen in any public space, often without warning. For victims of these random acts of violence, the path forward can feel uncertain and overwhelming. In addition to any criminal charges filed, victims may also have the right to pursue civil legal action against negligent parties.
In some cases, businesses or property owners may be held liable under premises liability laws if they failed to provide adequate security or failed to prevent a foreseeable threat. This includes:
Lack of proper surveillance or trained security staff
Failure to respond appropriately to prior warnings or threats
Inadequate emergency procedures
At Haggard Crime Victim Attorney, a division of The Haggard Law Firm, we advocate for victims of violent crime who are seeking justice beyond the criminal courts. Our nationally recognized legal team has handled numerous high-profile negligent security cases and understands how to build a strong claim for civil compensation.
From medical costs and emotional trauma to long-term therapy needs, victims of attacks like the one in Canoga Park may be entitled to financial recovery to help rebuild their lives.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a violent attack in a public space or commercial property, we are here to help. You don’t have to face this journey alone.
Contact Haggard Crime Victim Attorney today for a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys will review your case, explain your rights, and help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.
Source:
https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/woodland-hills-lapd-cheesecake-factory-shooting/3767615/
