Los Angeles: A suspect, who had pointed a gun at an intended victim, was shot by the man instead.
On Sunday, June 1, 2008, at around 12:55 a.m., Rosalio DeLa Rosa, 22-years of age, and his accomplice, a 17-year-old juvenile where in a market near Parthenia Street and Woodley Avenue. The pair became involved in a dispute with Anthony DeLa Cruz while at the market.
During the dispute DeLa Rosa claimed his gang affiliation and asked DeLa Cruz “where you from.” DeLa Cruz denied any gang ties and left the market in his vehicle. DeLa Rosa and the minor followed DeLa Cruz in their vehicle, brandishing a gun at DeLa Cruz several times before using their vehicle to stop DeLa Cruz’ vehicle.
As DeLa Rosa got out of his vehicle he pointed a gun at DeLa Cruz. DeLa Cruz, in fear for his life, fired his own gun at DeLa Rosa, striking him once and causing him and the gun to fall to the ground. The juvenile then picked up the gun and fired the weapon at DeLa Cruz, but it misfired. DeLa Cruz fired at the minor, striking him once in the torso.
DeLa Cruz fled the location and flagged down a police unit who was responding to the shooting call. He was immediately detained.
DeLa Rosa and the minor were both transported to a local hospital where DeLa Rosa was pronounced dead. The minor was treated for his injury and later booked for murder and is being held without bail. DeLa Cruz was booked for manslaughter and is being held on $100,000 bail.
Anyone with information about this crime is asked to call Van Nuys Homicide Detectives M. Martinez or L. Lowande at (818) 374-0040. On off hours, weekends, and holidays call the toll free number 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).
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