A 29-year-old man accused of firing rounds from a high-powered rifle before stabbing a woman at the Westfield Topanga Mall in Canoga Park was charged Monday with attempted murder and other crimes.
Shayne Suffern also was charged with kidnapping and possession of an assault weapon in the terrifying attack outside a Cheesecake Factory at the west San Fernando Valley mall. Suffern was carrying an AR-15 rifle, 200 rounds of ammunition and 13 fully loaded 40-round magazines, according to investigators.
No one was struck by gunfire. A woman was stabbed in what investigators said appeared to be a random attack.
Suffern was expected to be arraigned Monday in Van Nuys.
The LAPD said Suffern had a prior case involving the negligent discharge of a firearm in public. According to LA Superior Court records, he faced charges in February 2023 of willful discharge of a firearm and possession of an assault weapon.
In October 2024 he was sentenced to two years of mental health diversion, with a condition prohibiting him from owning or possessing any dangerous or deadly weapons. He previously had a hearing for this case scheduled in January 2026.
According to police, the AR 15-style rifle was not California compliant and had high-capacity magazines that were also not legal in California.
New details are revealed in a frightening encounter outside a Canoga Park cheesecake factory. Annette Arreola reports for Today in LA on Friday Aug. 22, 2025.
The woman who was stabbed ran into a Cheesecake Factory carrying a child and asking for help. Her injuries were not considered life-threatening.
Police said Suffern had “notes, writings, manifesto-style writings,” but none referenced a specific incident. The notes reference hatred toward women and children, police said.
Suffern’s father, speaking last week from his North Carolina home, told NBCLA his son is an Army veteran with PTSD and schizophrenia. He served in Poland as a communications specialist, his father said.
The family has been trying for years to get him help for his mental health, he said, adding that his son was an avid gun collector. Suffern moved to Los Angeles about a month ago, he said.
Allison Craig is a passionate sports writer and analyst with a deep love for game strategies, player performances, and the latest trends in the sports world. With years of experience covering football, basketball, tennis, and more, she delivers insightful analysis and engaging content for sports enthusiasts.
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