Man Dies in Downtown LA After Severing Own Penis

Police say the man also slashed his own throat and attempted to cut off an arm before bleeding out on the sidewalk.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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A man died in downtown Los Angeles over the weekend after using a sharp object to cut off his own penis and slash his own throat. Police responded to 911 calls around 3:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 7, and found the man unresponsive on the sidewalk, where he had bled out. The LAPD is investigating the incident, but a motive is unclear.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the need for greater mental health resources and crisis intervention in the Los Angeles area, as well as the dangers of self-harm and the importance of seeking professional help. The graphic nature of the man's injuries has also raised concerns about public safety and the impact on bystanders who may have witnessed the aftermath.

The details

According to the LAPD, the man used a sharp implement to cut off his own penis and also slash his own throat. He was found unresponsive on the sidewalk near the Crypto.com Arena and Los Angeles Convention Center, where he had bled out. Paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene. Police also reported that the man had attempted to cut off one of his arms.

  • The incident occurred around 3:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 7, 2026.

The players

Los Angeles Police Department

The local law enforcement agency investigating the incident.

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What they’re saying

“We must do more to address mental health issues and provide resources for those in crisis to prevent such tragic outcomes.”

— Chief Michel Moore, LAPD Chief (Los Angeles Times)

What’s next

The LAPD is continuing its investigation into the incident and the circumstances surrounding the man's self-inflicted injuries. An autopsy will be performed to determine if the man was under the influence of any substances at the time.

The takeaway

This disturbing case underscores the urgent need for improved mental health support and crisis intervention services in the Los Angeles area to prevent such tragic loss of life. Community leaders and policymakers must work to address the root causes of self-harm and ensure those struggling have access to the help they need.