Torrance Man, 19, Wanted For Attempted Murder Fatally Shot On School Campus
TORRANCE (CBSLA.com) — A 19-year-old Torrance man wanted for arson and attempted murder was fatally shot Thursday on the campus of a middle school.
Police spotted Asa James Dolak on the campus of Madrona Middle School, armed with a knife. Dolak, who had threatened to kill police officers, was found inside a girls' restroom at the school, officials said.
He was pronounced dead at 1:35 p.m. Classes were not in session.
Dolak reportedly set fire to the apartment he shared with his ex-girlfriend in the 16700 block of Crenshaw Boulevard around 12:15 a.m.
The woman and the couple's 2-year-old son were in the apartment when he allegedly ignited the fire, but they were able to escape.
"The child was ultimately rescued and transported to a local hospital and is being treated for smoke-related, fire-related injuries," Torrance police Sgt. Robert Watt said.
The child was last listed in stable condition.
The incident was prompted by a domestic dispute on Christmas Day, according to authorities. Police told KCAL9's Brittney Hopper Dolak had been in trouble in the past for domestic battery.
Around 2 a.m., Dolak also allegedly set fire to another family member's home, reportedly inhabited by his mother, in the 3200 block of Opal Street, investigators said.
Dolak's mother provided KCAL9 with a written statement in which he allegedly threatens: "Your house is next."
No other injuries were reported.
