Man Dead in Gang-Related Shooting

Los Angeles: A gang-related shooting led to the death of a 20-year-old Los Angeles man whose name is being withheld until his family has been notified.

The shooting happened yesterday around 10:50 p.m., in the 2200 block of West Pico Boulevard.

According to investigators, two Hispanic men in a green 2004 Ford Explorer drove up and parked in a nearby alley. One of the men exited the vehicle, approached the victim on the sidewalk and asked what gang he is affiliated with. After a brief argument, a fight broke out between the men.

When the man struggled to defeat the victim, a second man inside the vehicle came to his aid wearing a black ski mask and armed with a shotgun. The gunman opened fire, striking the victim in the chest and head, police said. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene.

The suspects took off and moments later lost control of their vehicle and crashed into a cement wall. The pair abandoned their vehicle and fled on foot.

The driver of the vehicle had a mustache. He was last seen wearing a gray shirt and blue jeans. The passenger suspect was last seen wearing dark clothing.

Police have few leads and are asking for anyone with information to call Rampart Homicide Detectives Gilbert Alonso or Carlos Silva at 213-207-2060. On weekends and during off-hours, phone the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAW-FULL (529-3855).