Attempted Murder Charge Follows Gunfire At Celebrity Mansion

Kevin.Daniels, CC BY 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

A woman accused of opening fire outside a Los Angeles mansion is now facing a series of new felony charges after prosecutors said the shooting was not random, but part of what investigators believe was a deliberate attempt to target someone inside the property.

Ivanna Lisette Ortiz, 35, of Florida, appeared in court this week after Los Angeles County prosecutors formally outlined the allegations tied to the March 8 shooting — an incident that investigators say took place outside a Beverly Crest home owned by global music star Rihanna.

According to the criminal complaint, prosecutors allege the attack was carried out in a manner that was “willful, deliberate and premeditated,” language typically used in cases where investigators believe the suspect intended to kill the victim.

Additional Felony Charges Filed

Along with the attempted murder charge, Ortiz faces 13 additional felony counts, including:

  • 10 counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm
  • Three counts of shooting at an inhabited dwelling or camper

If convicted on all charges, Ortiz could face life in prison under California law.

Her bail has been set at approximately $1.875 million. A judge also ordered her to stay away from Rihanna and her family.

Family Inside Home During Shooting

Authorities say Ortiz allegedly fired multiple shots toward the home while Rihanna was inside with her partner, rapper A$AP Rocky, their children, her mother and several staff members.

No one inside the home was injured.

Prosecutors said the shooting nevertheless created serious danger for those inside the residence and nearby neighbors.

Investigators believe Ortiz may have also fired shots at a neighboring home before leaving the area.

Arrest Made the Same Day

Police say Ortiz fled the scene but was arrested later that day in the Sherman Oaks neighborhood of Los Angeles.

Authorities have not publicly identified a clear motive.

Investigators are examining Ortiz’s social media activity and personal background for clues about why she allegedly targeted the singer.

Ortiz has been identified in reports as a licensed speech pathologist from Orlando, Florida. Prosecutors have not indicated she had any known personal connection to Rihanna.

Court Proceedings Continue

During her initial court appearance, Ortiz’s public defender entered a not guilty plea.

Her formal arraignment has been postponed, and her next court date is scheduled for March 25 in Los Angeles County Superior Court.

Case Draws Public Attention

The shooting has drawn significant public attention due to Rihanna’s global fame as a music star and business entrepreneur.

Officials said the case also highlights the dangers associated with gun violence in residential areas.

“Opening fire in any populated neighborhood is extremely dangerous and puts innocent lives at risk,” the Los Angeles County district attorney’s office said when announcing the charges.

Prosecutors say the case remains active as investigators continue preparing for what could become a high-profile criminal trial.

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Patrick Houck

Patrick Houck is an avid political enthusiast based out of the Washington, D.C., metro area. His expertise is in campaigns and the use of targeted messaging to persuade voters. When not combing through the latest news, you can find him enjoying the company of family and friends or pursuing his love of photography.

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