Woodland Hills, CA August 21, 2025 A shooting incident outside the Cheesecake Factory at Westfield Topanga Mall in Woodland Hills left a woman with her baby injured, prompting a swift response from the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Topanga Division. The incident, which occurred at approximately 12:30 p.m. sent shockwaves through the shopping center, leading to a large law enforcement presence and the apprehension of a suspect.
According to preliminary reports from the LAPD, officers were dispatched to the Cheesecake Factory, located at 6600 Topanga Canyon Blvd, following reports of gunfire. Witnesses reported that a woman with her baby were shot at and stabbed near the restaurant’s entrance. In the chaos, the victims reportedly ran inside the Cheesecake Factory, screaming and covered in blood, causing panic among patrons and staff.
The male black suspect, described as fleeing the scene in a dark-colored Mercedes, was quickly spotted by officers near an Office Depot at Topanga and Erwin, just one block from the mall. LAPD Topanga Division officers requested backup and successfully apprehended the suspect in front of the Office Depot. During the arrest, authorities recovered an AR-15-type rifle at the scene, though it remains unclear if this was the weapon used in the shooting.
The woman was transported to a local Hospital for treatment, but her condition remains unknown at this time. The condition of her baby is also undisclosed. The motive for the shooting has not been released, and the investigation is ongoing.
The Westfield Topanga Mall, a popular destination in the San Fernando Valley known for its upscale retail and dining options, including the Cheesecake Factory and Topanga Social, was cordoned off in sections as police secured the area. A significant law enforcement presence at the location with portions of the mall’s parking lot taped off as investigators processed the scene.
As the community grapples with the shock of this incident, the Westfield Topanga Mall remains open, though the Cheesecake Factory is expected to be closed temporarily as the investigation continues. Updates on the victims’ conditions and further details about the suspect are expected as the LAPD continues its work.
The LAPD has not released the identity of the suspect or additional details about the victims, citing the active investigation. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Topanga Community Police Station.
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