Gang-Related, Car to Car Shooting, Kills 17 Year-Old Boy

Los Angeles: On February 3, 2003 at 8:23 p.m., a car containing several unidentified male Hispanics, drove up to the Holy Cross Hospital Emergency Room located in the Foothill Area of Los Angeles. Inside the vehicle, 17 year-old Pacoima resident James Caldera, was suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. The witnesses inside the car told the attending hospital staff that Caldera was hit by a bullet fired by an unknown assailant in another car, as they traveled northbound on San Fernando Road.
Despite the efforts of the medical staff, Caldera was pronounced dead by attending hospital physicians. Arriving at the hospital, Caldera’s family confirmed the victim’s identity and that he was associated with a local street gang. There are no suspects in custody and no weapon was recovered.
This incident appears to be gang-related and the investigation is being handled by Foothill Area Detectives. The detectives are in the process of attempting to identify the suspects and are asking for assistance from the public. Anyone with information regarding this crime is asked to call 818-834-3115 or during off-hours, 818-756-8861.
This press release was prepared by Officer Jack Richter, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.