A 35-year-old woman has been charged with attempted murder after allegedly opening fire at the Beverly Hills home of global pop star Rihanna, in an incident that authorities say could have turned deadly.
The suspect, identified as Ivanna Lisette Ortiz from Orlando, Florida, was arrested after police say she fired multiple rounds from a semiautomatic rifle at the singer’s Los Angeles residence on Sunday, March 8. At the time of the shooting, Rihanna was reportedly inside the house with her partner, rapper A$AP Rocky, their three young children, Rihanna’s mother, and members of staff. Fortunately, no one was injured in the attack.
According to investigators, the suspect arrived outside the property in a white Tesla and began firing several shots toward the home. Some of the bullets reportedly struck the front gate and other exterior parts of the property. Authorities say around 10 shots were fired during the incident, raising alarm in the otherwise quiet Beverly Hills neighbourhood.
Police responded quickly after receiving emergency calls about gunfire in the area. A helicopter and ground officers tracked the suspect’s vehicle as it fled the scene. About 30 minutes later, Ortiz was located and arrested in the Sherman Oaks area of Los Angeles without further incident. Officers also recovered an AR-15-style rifle and spent shell casings from the vehicle.
Prosecutors have charged Ortiz with one count of attempted murder, along with 10 counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm and three counts of shooting at an inhabited dwelling. If convicted on the charges, she could face a life sentence in prison.
Authorities say the motive for the shooting is still unclear, and investigators are examining the suspect’s background and social media activity for possible clues. Some reports suggest Ortiz had previously posted messages referencing Rihanna, though officials have not confirmed any direct relationship between the suspect and the singer.
Ortiz appeared briefly in court following her arrest and is currently being held on bail while awaiting further legal proceedings. Her arraignment has been scheduled for March 25.
Meanwhile, Rihanna and her family remain safe. The shocking incident has prompted renewed attention to celebrity security and the risks posed by stalking and violent threats targeting public figures.
