Church Going Man Shot After Dropping Off His Niece at Home

Los Angeles:  A Hawthorne man who attended a church service with his niece was shot after he drove her home and visited with family.

On Sunday, August 30, 2009, Eteuati, Puncho, a 32-year-old Samoan man was standing on the sidewalk in the 1300 block of Ronan Avenue, talking to members of his family.  At around 10:30 p.m., an unknown suspect walked northbound on Ronan Avenue from "M" Street and fired numerous rounds at the victim.  Victim Puncho was struck multiple times in the upper torso.  Puncho was transported to a local hospital where he died an hour and a half later.  The motive of this crime is still unknown and the handgun is still outstanding.
 
Harbor Area Detectives handling the investigation are asking for the public’s help to provide any information that may lead to the identification and the arrest of the suspect.  Anyone with information is asked to contact Harbor Area Homicide Detectives Rodriguez and Batres at (310) 726-7881.  During off-hours, calls may be directed to a 24-hour, toll-free number at 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (527-3247).  Callers may also text “Crimes” with a cell phone or log on to www.lapdonline.org and click on Web tips. When using a cell phone, all messages should begin with “LAPD.” Tipsters may remain anonymous.