Consulate back to normal after shooting

The Chinese consulate in Los Angeles has been open and operating normally despite a shooting incident outside the building on Tuesday morning.

"Since the incident happened, we have been in close contact with the US side and urged them to solve the case as soon as possible and keep us posted on the investigation," said the Chinese consulate in its latest statement posted on its website Wednesday.

The consulate also requested that the US authorities take all necessary and effective measures to ensure the safety and respect for the consulate and its staff.

The incident happened at about 6 am on Monday when a man opened fire at the consulate, but no one was injured. The suspect was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound in his car nearby.

At least eight bullets penetrated the front door and numerous rounds impacted the building, according to a report in the World Journal.

When the incident happened, a security guard at the consulate was on duty but he was lucky enough to avoid being shot, the report said.

The police have not released any further information. A police spokesman refused to comment on the case, saying the investigation was underway.

The Los Angeles coroner's office said the police put a "security hold" on the case and declined to disclose any details.

Local media said the suspect was of Chinese origin and in his 60s. The Chinese consulate said "the police have not formally announced the suspect's identity, nationality, age or motive".

In 2011, a man was arrested after police said he fired nine shots at a security guard outside the same consulate, but he hit only the building.

liazhu@chinadailyusa.com