Chapter 202: LAPD

The stretcher was wheeled out one by one, and the ambulances sped away from the scene.

The two severely injured criminals were also carried out of the basketball hall. One displayed a fractured skull, bloodied and battered, while the other had been shot and lay unconscious.

Bratton, the top LAPD official present and the director at the time, wore a grave expression. Another grave and violent incident had unfolded in Los Angeles.

A police inspector swiftly approached Bratton, who inquired, "What's the casualty count?"

The officer reported promptly, "None of our officers were injured. One criminal was killed by the SWAT team, and the other two suspects were critically wounded. Hollywood actor Martin Davis is suspected of subduing them. Among the victims, we've confirmed over ten fatalities and more than a dozen serious injuries, primarily comprising Burbank Middle School basketball team members and staff."

Bratton muttered a few curses to himself before instructing, "Secure the surveillance video footage from the scene, provide comfort to the injured, contact their families, ensuring they don't disclose sensitive information, and take statements from those who are emotionally stable. I want a comprehensive understanding of what transpired in the arena. This case is sure to garner significant attention in the United States."

Several female police officers arrived and engaged with the cheerleaders to gather more information.

Everyone's accounts converged on one pivotal figure: Martin Davis. It was Martin Davis who had saved them, risking his own life to subdue the gunman.

While the LAPD had acquired a video recording of SWAT's intervention from Helen's DV camera, they also obtained the cameraman's tape.

Bratton and several officers gathered to watch the video together. Though the footage was concise, lasting less than ten minutes, it vividly captured the sequence of events. It began with Martin Davis noticing something amiss, directing people to evacuate, and culminating in the convenience store's cola explosion.

"A model of selflessness," one police inspector commented.

Another female police superintendent affirmed, "Without Martin Davis, none of those dozen girls would have survived."

The video provided a stark portrayal. The assailants, consumed by rage, had stormed into the store, firing indiscriminately. Had it not been for Martin Davis's fearless intervention, everyone taking refuge inside the store would likely have fallen victim to the gunfire.

The loss of a dozen young girls carried far greater social repercussions than the same number of male casualties.

Superintendent McClain, a specialist in public relations, remarked, "Martin Davis is a hero. He averted a potential catastrophe in Los Angeles." They all understood that additional fatalities would significantly amplify the challenges they faced.

"Managing public opinion will be a challenge," Bratton contemplated, already considering the potential societal impact. In his position, he often had to think like a politician, strategizing to influence the direction of public sentiment.

McClain suggested, "I believe Martin Davis is the linchpin."

Bratton acknowledged, "For now, I'm uncertain. Let's meet with him personally before involving outsiders."

McClain and Bratton went to speak with Martin together.

The LAPD had been considerate enough to assign two young and attractive policewomen to engage in conversation with Martin and Bruce.

Martin conversed with them cordially, unsurprised when Bratton and McClain approached. He understood that the LAPD would naturally initiate contact.

McClain extended her hand to Martin after a brief glance at Helen, the reporter. She introduced herself first, followed by Bratton. She proposed, "Shall we find a private spot to chat?"

Martin agreed, saying, "Certainly."

The trio made their way to an open area.

Bratton initiated the conversation, stating, "On behalf of the police force, Martin, I'd like to express our gratitude to you. You prevented a grave incident from escalating into something even more horrific."

Martin responded candidly, "Truthfully, I was also driven by fear and a desire to protect myself."

Bratton added, "I viewed the video footage. Your bravery was evident. You incapacitated the assailant precisely when and how it was needed. You saved countless lives and neutralized a highly dangerous criminal."

Martin inquired specifically, "Did I use excessive force? Could there be legal ramifications?"

"Excessive force? Absolutely not!" Bratton reassured him. With numerous eyewitnesses present, Bratton knew that the incident would inevitably become public knowledge. He emphasized, "You're a hero to Los Angeles! I'll compile a special report on this matter and submit it to the mayor's office and city council."

Martin grasped the situation and interjected, "In that case, I'd like to express my gratitude to the LAPD as well."

McClain and Bratton paused, intrigued by Martin's intentions.

Martin spoke earnestly, "When my manager, Bruce, and I were trapped in the corridor by gunmen armed with automatic weapons, it was the LAPD who rushed in and rescued us in the nick of time. As far as I'm concerned, the LAPD are the true heroes."

McClain was momentarily taken aback. Bratton had just laid the groundwork for a commendation, but before the LAPD director could speak, Martin not only extended his hand in cooperation but also declared them a part of the same family.

This man demonstrated remarkable tact!

Having accomplished such a heroic deed, one might expect him to bask in the limelight with arrogance and ego.

Bratton responded swiftly, asserting, "It was the LAPD's duty. Martin, on behalf of all our officers, I extend an invitation for you to visit our police headquarters."

Martin accepted graciously, stating, "I'll definitely come to express my gratitude in person."

Today, Martin understood that the things within his control were now firmly in his grasp. While reaping the benefits, he saw no harm in forging a strong bond with the LAPD, the most influential force in Los Angeles.

Bratton shook Martin's hand vigorously, stating, "The LAPD always treats its friends well."

McClain inquired, "Shall we discuss the specifics?"

Martin replied, "I'll call my agent, and you can negotiate these matters with him."

McClain nodded in agreement, saying, "Very well."

Martin retrieved his mobile phone and placed a call.

In the interim, Bratton sought Martin's opinion, asking, "What's your impression of him?"

"A remarkably astute and sensible young man," McClain responded, attempting to maintain objectivity to avoid influencing her boss's judgment. "He's poised to become a hero in this city, and we're quietly supporting him behind the scenes. We'll use his actions to capture the public's attention and shape public opinion, which should alleviate some of the pressure on us."

Bratton concurred, "Yes, since he's willing to collaborate, our work will be smoother. Handle it, especially with the Warner Television reporter."

McClain assured, "Leave it to me."

Once Martin finished his phone call, he exchanged some words and then returned to the car.

The police had numerous post-incident tasks to manage, particularly regarding public opinion.

On the side of the bus, many cheerleaders and their parents had arrived.

As soon as Blake Lively spotted Martin, she rushed over and hugged him tightly, her eyelashes glistening with tears. She ran her hands up and down his body, reassuring herself that he was unharmed. Choked with emotion, she said, "You're alright, you're alright, that was amazing! You went out there with a gun to save Bruce; you frightened me half to death..."

Martin gently patted her back, comforting her, "It's over, we're safe."

A middle-aged man stood behind Blake.

Martin attempted to release himself from her embrace, but Blake clung to him, running her hands over him to confirm his safety.

Ernie Lively introduced himself, saying, "Blake is my daughter."

Martin shook Ernie's hand, saying, "Mr. Lively."

Ernie expressed his gratitude sincerely, shaking Martin's hand firmly. "You saved my daughter and our family. Thank you."

Martin replied modestly, "You're welcome. Blake and I are friends."

Ernie offered his personal business card to Martin, saying, "You've probably heard of me. If you ever need anything, just give me a call."

They exchanged business cards, exchanged polite words, and Ernie departed with his daughter.

As Blake left, she glanced back at Martin three times, her eyes filled with admiration.

There was no helping it; a 17 or 18-year-old girl was ill-equipped to handle such a situation and such a person.

Leonardo and Jack had been entirely forgotten by Blake; her sole idol was now Martin.

Subsequently, Judith and her parents, as well as numerous individuals whose names Martin couldn't recall, approached to express their gratitude one by one.

Martin gained considerable goodwill and support from these individuals.

Both Burbank Middle School and North Hollywood's Hall Middle School were among California's top private middle schools. The students attending such institutions hailed from affluent families.

Martin was well aware that these favors could potentially be of great use for him to elevate his career.

"Sister, Martin's over there," Elizabeth said as she held a woman almost half a head shorter than herself on each side. "Without Martin, I might be lying in an ambulance right now."

Ashley and Mary also expressed their gratitude to Martin.

Elizabeth, upon approaching Martin, threw herself into his arms and wept.

Martin wore an innocent expression and opened his arms, signifying that he had done nothing wrong.

Mary was about to approach, but Ashley held her back, saying, "Let her cry it out. She'll feel better after."

"Sorry," Mary replied.

Pointing to Elizabeth, Mary explained, "She was terribly frightened."

Meanwhile, Bruce, the rogue, sat in the back of an ambulance, thoroughly entertained by the spectacle. The more he watched, the more amusing he found it.

He glanced at the Olsen sisters, shaking his head. Clearly, those two were not Martin's type.

"I am absolutely not to blame for what happened, khloé was the one who seduce me!" Bruce found plenty of reasons and excuses for his own scumbag behavior: "It's all Martin's fault. He's the one who corrupted and taught me to have all these bad habits!"

Elizabeth was about to depart with her sisters.

Martin advised, "Get some rest as soon as you can."

Elizabeth inquired, "When will you come to Louise's place?"

"I'll get in touch with you when the time comes," Martin assured her.

"I'll be waiting," Elizabeth replied before leaving with her sisters.

Martin approached Bruce, accepted the water he offered, took a sip, and then noticed Thomas.

His agent hurried over, accompanied by an unexpected figure—Louise, who wore black-rimmed glasses and professional attire. She walked briskly toward Martin, glanced at him briefly, and casually commented, "Not bad." Martin intentionally displayed the wound on his hand, which had been treated with iodine, and remarked, "I got injured!" Thomas chimed in, "You nearly gave me a heart attack!" Martin got down to business, stating, "Once I've filled you in, you can negotiate with the LAPD regarding public opinion matters."

Thomas immediately got to work.

Martin looked at Louise and offered her a smile.

Louise remarked, "What, you weren't expecting me? Don't forget, you still owe me that few new cocktail formula!"

She added sternly, "If you don't settle that debt, don't think you'll get off lightly. I won't make it easy for you."