What started as a fishing town separate from the city of Los Angeles, San Pedro has evolved from a working class neighbourhood to a rapidly gentrifying locality as property prices go up and people are being pushed out by rising costs.

The neighbourhood has come under scrutiny recently as gun violence hit the district, which is home to a part of the Port of Los Angeles. In a shooting on Sunday, July 24, 2022, at least seven people were injured, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department. Four of the injured were men, while three were women.

Also Read: San Pedro Peck Park shooting: Seven injured, 2 critical says LAFD in statement

The incident occurred at a car show as people gathered to show off the latest mods to their vehicles. Due to the large concentration of police in one area, the Los Angeles Police Department issued a citywide tactical alert. While the LAPD hasn’t released information about the shooter or the suspect, although a Twitter user said that police allegedly the shooter was wearing body armour. 

However, at least according to property listings in and around San Pedro, the neighbourhood is safe. Crime statistics for the area are higher than the national average but it is the lowest in the city of LA. While violent crime is 27% higher than the national average, property crime is 14% lower than the national average, according to areavibes.com. Overall, San Pedro has 7% less crime than across the U.S. However, these numbers are estimates considering this data comes from local law enforcement agencies.

Also Read: San Pedro Peck Park shooting: What we know so far

While the LAPD is responsible for policing and public safety, the neighbourhood partially includes the Port of LA, which is in turn policed by the Los Angeles Port Police who guard the waterfront and the areas within the port. They’re on duty on a 24-hour basis with regular patrols around the channels of the port. The downtown area is guarded by independent contractors provided by the Business Improvement District.