On the night of July 19, 2023, at approximately 11:20 p.m., a tragic shooting occurred at Petit Park, part of the Granada Hills Recreation Center in Los Angeles. Officers from the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) responded to reports of gunfire near the intersection of Petit Avenue and Chatsworth Street. Upon arrival, they discovered 16-year-old Thomas Kornswiet, who had sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene.
During the same incident, a two-year-old child, who was at the playground with his mother, was struck by a bullet in the torso. The toddler was transported to a nearby hospital and was listed in stable condition.
Investigators have indicated that the shooting may be gang-related, though no definitive motive has been established. As of now, no arrests have been made, and the LAPD has not released any information regarding potential suspects. Authorities have appealed to the public for assistance, urging anyone with information about the incident to contact the LAPD's Operation Valley Bureau at 818-374-9550 or Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477.
In the wake of this tragedy, Kornswiet's family has sought community support through a GoFundMe campaign to cover funeral expenses. Additionally, they organized a car wash fundraiser at North Hills Baptist Church on August 5, 2023, to honor Thomas's memory.
The local community has expressed deep concern over the incident, highlighting ongoing issues related to safety in the area. Residents have noted previous complaints about crime in the vicinity of the park. In response, authorities have increased patrols and are actively seeking leads to apprehend those responsible for the shooting.
