The launchers have an effective range of up to 75 feet and were originally used only by the SWAT team ... lethal" weapons — a trend confirmed by a Times review of nearly 50 LAPD shootings ...

according to the LAPD. Officers responded to a call about a man with a gun at a motel. The man's frightening tirade and talk of weapons terrified other motel guests, prompting them to call 911.