Jillian Lauren — an acclaimed true-crime author and wife of Weezer bassist Scott Shriner — was shot by Los Angeles police officers on April 8, 2025, and later arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after allegedly pointing a handgun at officers in the Eagle Rock neighborhood of Los Angeles.
The LAPD confirmed the incident occurred as officers were conducting a search for suspects involved in a separate hit-and-run incident nearby. Authorities emphasized that Lauren was not connected to the initial hit-and-run but became involved during the ongoing investigation.
Incident Overview
According to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), officers were in the neighborhood when Jillian Lauren exited her residence holding a 9mm handgun. Despite multiple verbal commands to drop the weapon, Lauren allegedly pointed the firearm in the direction of officers.
In response, the officers discharged their firearms, striking Lauren in the shoulder. She retreated back into the house but later surrendered to police without further resistance.
The LAPD has released a statement indicating that a shell casing recovered at the scene and preliminary video evidence suggest Lauren may have fired her weapon before being shot. The department has launched an internal investigation into the use of force as per standard protocol. Updates may be provided via the LAPD Newsroom.
Arrest and Charges
Lauren was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment of her injuries, which were deemed non-life-threatening. Following her release, she was booked on charges of attempted murder of a peace officer and assault with a deadly weapon, and held on $1 million bail.
As of April 10, she has been released from custody and is scheduled to appear in court on April 30, 2025, for arraignment. Formal case details are expected to be available soon on the Los Angeles County Superior Court system, accessible at www.lacourt.org.
Public and Family Response
Scott Shriner, best known as the bassist for rock band Weezer, has not yet released an official public statement. The band, however, has confirmed they will continue with their performance at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival scheduled for April 12, as originally planned.
Lauren’s representatives have not issued formal comments about the allegations or her condition. Legal counsel is expected to address the media following the court appearance.
About Jillian Lauren
Jillian Lauren, 51, gained recognition for her memoir Some Girls: My Life in a Harem, which recounts her experience in the harem of Brunei’s Prince Jefri Bolkiah. She is also the author of Behold the Monster, a critically acclaimed book detailing her interviews with convicted serial killer Samuel Little, America’s most prolific murderer, according to the FBI (FBI Samuel Little Case).
Lauren has written for major publications, including The New York Times and Vanity Fair, and is well-regarded in true-crime literary circles for her investigative depth and empathy toward victims.
She has been married to Scott Shriner since 2005, and the couple has adopted two children.
Police and Public Safety Protocols
This incident is raising renewed concerns about mental health, civilian-police encounters, and public safety protocols in high-tension environments. LAPD has encouraged the public to remain cooperative during active investigations and to avoid behavior that could escalate law enforcement responses.
If citizens encounter or witness a police operation in progress, the LAPD urges everyone to stay at a safe distance and follow all officer instructions. Guidance for interacting with law enforcement can be found via the California Department of Justice.
Investigation and Transparency
The LAPD’s Force Investigation Division is currently examining body camera footage, physical evidence, and witness testimonies to determine whether officers followed proper use-of-force guidelines. Under California law (AB 748), footage of the incident may be released within 45 days unless doing so would interfere with an ongoing investigation. Updates will likely be shared via LAPD’s Transparency Portal.
Civil rights groups have called for careful scrutiny of the case, while also acknowledging the serious allegations involved. The public is encouraged to follow the case through official channels to avoid misinformation.
What Happens Next?
Jillian Lauren will face her preliminary court hearing on April 30, where formal charges will be reviewed. If convicted of attempted murder of a peace officer, she could face significant prison time under California Penal Code Section 664/187. Legal analysts suggest the outcome will depend heavily on forensic analysis, video evidence, and her legal defense’s strategy.
More details about California’s criminal proceedings can be found on the California Courts official site.
Conclusion
The incident involving Jillian Lauren has shocked both the literary and music worlds. As legal proceedings begin, questions remain about what prompted her to engage with armed officers and how the case will unfold in court. For now, the LAPD continues its investigation while Lauren prepares to defend herself against serious charges that could carry long-lasting consequences.
