The deputy captain speculated, "It's also possible that the gunman has already fled."
Jenny shook her head, "Killing someone in broad daylight with so many witnesses around, it's probably not that easy for the gunman to escape."
The deputy captain shook his head, "There aren't as many witnesses as you think. In such situations, everyone runs for their lives. Those who ran slow have already been shot, and those who ran fast wouldn't dare go back to risk their lives.
Plus, this guy was armed with several guns and had body armor, he was fully equipped. This means this massacre wasn't random; the suspect must have pre-selected an escape route and direction."
This case has become the focus for Squad One, and members arriving have joined in the discussion.
In fact, it's not just Squad One. The entire Los Angeles, even the whole United States, is paying attention to this case.
Shootings happen in Los Angeles every day, but this time it was a unilateral massacre with over ten casualties. Moreover, the perpetrator broadcasted the crime live. Many people saw the shooting video. The speed at which it spread online made a huge impact.
Half an hour later, Reid arrived at the Robbery and Murder Department's Squad One with the latest updates on the case.
Reid glanced at everyone, "You all know about the supermarket shooting, right?"
Luke replied, "We've been following this case as well. How are the casualties at the scene?"
"There were 13 people injured at the scene, with 5 victims shot dead immediately, and 2 more stopped breathing on the way to the hospital. The conditions of the other injured aren't good either..." Reid didn't specify, but the implication was that the death count could rise.
"This shooting took place at a supermarket near a residential area, which is extremely vile and has greatly terrified the citizens. The chief has personally rushed to the scene."
Little Black asked, "Has the perpetrator been caught?"
"After the police secured the scene, no gunman was found. It's very likely he has escaped.
I just got a call from the chief. He hopes we send our elite forces to take over the investigation, solve this case in the shortest time possible, capture the gunman, and restore peace to Los Angeles."
Reid showed a solemn expression, "Is Squad One willing to take on this case?"
This case is vile; the gunman broadcasted the murders, it's widely spread, and has attracted substantial attention in a short time, possibly gaining global attention, creating immense pressure to solve it.
Reid didn't directly assign the task but rather asked in a questioning tone.
Everyone looked at Luke.
Taking on this case has its pros and cons. The nature of the case ensures it will be known nationwide, and if Squad One can solve the case and catch the gunman, they'll naturally gain significant merit.
If they can't solve the case and the gunman remains at large, Luke will bear the responsibility.
Luke didn't answer immediately, "Is there a time limit to solve the case?"
That implies there might be one in the future. Luke doesn't like time constraints in solving cases; it feels like working with shackles. ʀᴇᴀᴅ ʟᴀᴛᴇsᴛ ᴄʜᴀᴘᴛᴇʀs ᴀᴛ novel⚑fire.net
Solving a case isn't like carrying sacks; you can't just finish it by exerting effort.
Besides criminal investigation skills, luck is also crucial.
However, since Reid has brought it to this point and mentioned Chief Frank, Luke couldn't easily refuse.
Taking a step back, Chief Frank and Chief Reid are in trouble and have already come to Squad One, signaling they hope Luke will take on the case. If he backs out now, what will they think of him?
If Luke can't handle this pressure, his promotion might be at a dead end.
Having figured this out, Luke clapped his hands, "Guys, gather your stuff, meet at the parking lot in 5 minutes."
Reid nodded with satisfaction, "I'll notify the patrol officers at the crime scene to assist in your investigation. Call me if you need anything."
"I will." Luke took a deep breath. He wasn't keen on handling cases under the spotlight, but since he's already been pushed into it, he had no choice.