Stray Bullets Kill Westlake 17-Year-Old, Wound 2nd Man

Los Angeles:  An Hispanic 17-year-old was struck and killed by stray bullets, and a second Hispanic man, 28 years old, shot and wounded July 3, 2005.

At approximately 9:25 in the evening, police officers were called to a shooting at 5th Street and Union Avenue where they found two men lying on the sidewalk suffering from gunshot wounds.  Paramedics transported the younger man to USC Medical Center.  He was pronounced dead on arrival.  The older man was taken to Good Samaritan Hospital, treated for a gunshot wound to the arm and later released.  The identities of the victims are being held pending notification of their families.

Both victims had been standing on the corner when they were hit by stray bullets meant for a third man in the area.  The intended victim had been approached and confronted by two male Hispanics.  One of the two men pulled a gun and began shooting at the intended victim, striking the two bystanders instead.

The first suspect was a male Hispanic, 23-25 years of age, 6’2”, 150lbs, wearing a black baseball cap, black pants and a black long sleeve pullover sweatshirt.  He was seen carrying a gun in his right hand.  He ran westbound between buildings and jumped over a fence.  There was no description of the second suspect. The shooting is believed to be gang related. The weapon used is still outstanding.

The Los Angeles Police Department is requesting the public’s assistance in solving this crime.  Anyone with information is asked to contact Rampart Homicide Detectives Zezasti or Logan at 213-207-2060 during normal business hours.  After hours or on weekends, please phone the toll-free 24-hour Detective Information Desk at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).