A 35-year-old woman accused of opening fire at the Beverly Hills property of global music icon Rihanna has formally pleaded not guilty to multiple felony charges in a Los Angeles courtroom.
During a hearing held Wednesday in downtown Los Angeles, Ivanna Ortiz entered a not guilty plea to one count of attempted murder, 10 felony counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm, and three felony counts of shooting at an inhabited dwelling or camper. If convicted on all charges, she could face a life sentence.
Ortiz remains in custody after a judge declined to reduce her bail from $1.875 million to $70,000. Prosecutors allege that the suspect drove from Florida to California and targeted the property earlier this month.
Details of the Alleged Shooting
Authorities say the incident occurred on March 8 at Rihanna’s home in the Beverly Crest neighborhood of Los Angeles. Investigators allege Ortiz fired multiple rounds at the residence before fleeing the scene.
According to law enforcement officials, gunfire struck the main house, a camper parked on the property, and even a nearby residence. Rihanna and her partner, rapper ASAP Rocky, were reportedly inside an Airstream trailer on the property at the time of the shooting.
Police stated that two bullets hit a double-paned window of the camper but did not penetrate the glass, while another round struck the trailer’s exterior. Additional damage was discovered throughout the property, including bullet holes in the gates and surrounding walls.
A particularly alarming discovery was a bullet hole found in the exterior wall of a second-floor nursery where the couple’s children and a nanny were present during the incident. Authorities also recovered bullet fragments from the front porch area. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Rihanna and ASAP Rocky’s Response
In interviews with detectives, Rihanna reportedly described hearing what she initially believed to be loud banging noises against metal. Upon pulling back a curtain, she allegedly saw visible bullet damage to the camper’s window.
She immediately alerted ASAP Rocky, who had been asleep, and the pair rushed from the trailer into the main residence to ensure the safety of their children, family members, and staff.
Police reports indicate that Ortiz later told investigators she was not attempting to commit murder but declined further questioning without legal representation.
Arrest and Investigation
Following the shooting, officers tracked down Ortiz roughly eight miles away at a shopping center in Sherman Oaks. Authorities say a witness provided a description of the suspect’s vehicle, which helped police locate her using helicopter surveillance and automated license plate reader technology.
When taken into custody, Ortiz was allegedly found alone in her vehicle with a rifle believed to have been used in the shooting. Investigators also recovered a wig that authorities claim was used as a disguise.
Law enforcement officials further noted that Ortiz’s social media accounts contained a series of unusual posts referencing Rihanna. One message appeared to directly address the singer in a confrontational tone.
Court records reveal that Ortiz had a prior arrest for domestic violence in 2023. She also reportedly sought legal action in Florida to block a concert by another major pop star in recent months.
Background on Rihanna
Rihanna, born Robyn Rihanna Fenty, first gained international fame in the early 2000s with chart-topping hits such as “Pon de Replay” and “Umbrella.” Over the years, she has expanded far beyond music, building a powerful global brand under the Fenty name that spans cosmetics, fashion, and lingerie.
She has been in a relationship with ASAP Rocky since 2020, and the couple shares three young children.
What Happens Next
Ortiz’s next court appearance is scheduled for April 8. Prosecutors are expected to present further evidence as the case moves forward.
As the legal proceedings continue, the case has drawn widespread attention due to the high-profile nature of the victims and the serious charges involved. Authorities have emphasized that the investigation remains active and that public safety remains a top priority.
