The North Hills community in Los Angeles is mourning an unimaginable tragedy following a devastating murder-suicide that claimed the lives of Khajag Basmajian, 31; Ella Basmajian, 6 days old; Alec Basmajian, 2 years old; and a woman in her 30s whose name has not yet been publicly released Wednesday night.
According to the Los Angeles Police Department, officers responded around 8 p.m. to a home in the 16200 block of Londelius Avenue after receiving reports of a shooting. When authorities arrived at the residence, they discovered four individuals deceased from gunshot wounds inside the home.
The victims were later identified by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office as 31-year-old Khajag Basmajian, 2-year-old Alec Basmajian, and infant Ella Basmajian, who was only six days old. A woman believed to be in her 30s also died in the tragedy, though her identity has not yet been publicly released pending family notification.
Authorities confirmed that the incident is being investigated as a murder-suicide. Police stated they are not searching for any additional suspects at this time. However, investigators have not yet publicly disclosed what may have led up to the shooting or the exact circumstances surrounding the heartbreaking incident.
The tragedy has left neighbors and community members in shock as many struggle to process the devastating loss of an entire young family, including two innocent children whose lives had only just begun.
AIR7 footage from above the neighborhood showed a massive emergency response at the scene, with firefighters, police officers, investigators, and crisis response teams gathering outside the residence throughout the evening.
Neighbors who gathered nearby described the incident as deeply heartbreaking and difficult to comprehend.
“It’s just shocking to be in our neighborhood, something that drastic and devastating,” said North Hills resident Undreal Turner. “It’s sad. Four people lost their lives today.”
Turner also emphasized the importance of checking on loved ones and members of the community who may be silently struggling.
“We really need to hone in on our moms, and even dads, just to make sure people are OK,” Turner said. “Do they need any help? Do they need any assistance? Do they need any support?”
Members of the mayor’s all-volunteer Crisis Response Team also responded to the scene to provide emotional support and assistance to those affected by the tragedy, including neighbors, relatives, and first responders coping with the devastating discovery.
As family members and loved ones now face the painful process of grieving, many are remembering the lives lost beyond the tragedy itself — especially young Alec Basmajian and baby Ella Basmajian, whose futures were tragically taken far too soon.
The heartbreaking incident has also renewed conversations surrounding mental health awareness, emotional support systems, and the importance of reaching out to individuals and families who may be struggling in silence.
During this time of immense sorrow, prayers and condolences continue pouring in for the victims’ loved ones and all those impacted by the tragedy.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or emotional distress, help is available. Call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 for free and confidential support 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
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