Couple Struck by Gunfire On Abbott Kinney Blvd in Venice, Both Sustaining non-life-threatening wounds to their legs

February 22, 2026 – Venice, CA -- In the early morning hours of Saturday, February 21, 2026, gunfire erupted outside the popular Roosterfish bar on Abbott Kinney Boulevard in Venice, sending shockwaves through one of Los Angeles' most fashionable and upscale neighborhoods.

According to eyewitness accounts and limited official reports, the incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. when shots were fired near the entrance of the bar located in the 1300 block of Abbott Kinney. Los Angeles Police Department officers from the Pacific Division responded swiftly to the scene.

Two individuals were struck by gunfire, both sustaining non-life-threatening wounds to their legs. They were transported to area hospitals for treatment. A third person reportedly suffered minor injuries while fleeing the chaos. No arrests have been announced, and the motive behind the shooting remains under investigation.

A young woman who was in the vicinity at the time shared her firsthand experience in a widely circulated video on social media. She described hearing multiple gunshots ring out suddenly amid the usual late-night crowd, forcing patrons and passersby to scatter in panic. The video, posted by a local account focused on Los Angeles news and commentary, has drawn attention for highlighting the apparent lack of coverage from major news outlets.

Despite the incident taking place in one of Venice's most high-profile and tourist-heavy areas-known for its boutique shops, celebrity sightings, and vibrant nightlife-mainstream media outlets including major television stations and newspapers have yet to publish detailed reports as of Sunday morning. The only confirmed coverage appears on a local blog, "2 Urban Girls," which posted a brief summary citing LAPD Pacific Division activity and the hospitalization of the two shooting victims.

Critics, including some local residents and online commentators, are calling the sparse reporting a "media blackout" on crime stories that could tarnish the image of trendy Westside neighborhoods. This comes amid ongoing debates about public safety perceptions in Los Angeles. While citywide violent crime statistics showed a modest decline in 2025, preliminary data for early 2026 indicates a noticeable uptick in shootings in certain beach communities, including Venice, running counter to official narratives from City Hall.

The Roosterfish bar, a long-standing fixture on Abbott Kinney with a diverse clientele and a reputation for inclusive vibes, has become synonymous with the area's gentrified yet eclectic character. Regulars and visitors alike expressed concern that such violence could deter people from enjoying the neighborhood's famous nightlife.

LAPD officials have not released further details, urging anyone with information to contact Pacific Division detectives. The investigation remains active.

As Venice continues to grapple with balancing its reputation as a glamorous destination with the realities of urban crime, incidents like this serve as a stark reminder that no area is entirely immune. Residents and business owners are left hoping for swift resolution and greater transparency from both law enforcement and the press.

The Santa Monica Observer will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as more information becomes available.