Best-Selling Author Jillian Lauren Shot by Police and Charged with Attempted Murder During Search for Hit-and-Run Suspects in Los Angeles
April 10, 2025, Los Angeles, CA Jillian Lauren, 51, a well-known author and true-crime storyteller, was shot by police and charged with attempted murder after an officer-involved shooting in the Eagle Rock district of Los Angeles. This is a startling and extremely concerning development. Lauren, who is well-known for her investigative work on serial killer Samuel Little and her best-selling memoir Some Girls, allegedly armed herself and faced police during a hunt for hit-and-run suspects close to her home.
A Shocking Encounter Amid Chaos
According to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), the incident occurred during a manhunt for suspects who had fled the scene of a hit-and-run crash on the 134 Freeway. Officers were assisting the California Highway Patrol in locating the individuals believed to have escaped on foot into the surrounding residential area.
Police say Lauren was encountered in her front yard, where she allegedly brandished a firearm. Despite officers issuing multiple commands for her to drop the weapon, she reportedly pointed the gun at police, prompting one of the officers to open fire. Lauren was struck in the shoulder. She retreated into her home but later surrendered without further resistance.
Authorities recovered a 9mm handgun from the scene.
Not a Suspect in Hit-and-Run
Police have since confirmed that Jillian Lauren was not connected to the original hit-and-run investigation. That crash was unrelated to Lauren or her property, but the active search for suspects had brought police into her neighborhood. The LAPD emphasized that Lauren’s actions escalated the situation and led to the shooting.
One suspect from the hit-and-run was later apprehended and cited. Two others remain at large.
Charges and Investigation
Following medical treatment for her non-life-threatening injury, Lauren was booked on attempted murder charges. She is currently being held on $1 million bail. The LAPD’s Force Investigation Division is now reviewing the use of force, and an internal inquiry is underway.
This incident has stunned both the literary world and fans of Lauren’s work, many of whom know her as a thoughtful, fearless writer who dove into the darkest corners of the criminal justice system to tell the stories of victims and killers alike.
A High-Profile Life
Jillian Lauren is married to Scott Shriner, bassist of the rock band Weezer. The couple shares two adopted children. Her deeply personal writing and advocacy work for survivors of abuse have earned her national attention and respect. Most recently, Lauren appeared in the documentary Confronting a Serial Killer, chronicling her interviews with serial murderer Samuel Little.
This violent encounter has cast a shadow over her career and raised urgent questions about the circumstances of the confrontation and her mental state at the time.
Community Response and What’s Next
Neither Lauren’s legal team nor her husband Scott Shriner has released a public statement. Weezer is currently scheduled to perform at the Coachella Music and Arts Festival, though it’s unclear whether Shriner will participate following this family crisis.
As investigations proceed, the LAPD is asking for public cooperation and any additional footage or eyewitness accounts that may shed light on the full scope of the incident.
This developing story continues to unfold and has left many reeling over how a respected public figure could become entangled in such a volatile and tragic event. More updates will be shared as additional details emerge.