Teenager Killed After Being Struck by Two Vehicles NR22242mc

September 2, 2022 

UPDATE

During their investigation, detectives recovered evidence and compiled statements provided by several witnesses, which allowed them to identify the suspect as Erik Franco, DOB 7/19/2001. Central Bureau Homicide detectives obtained an arrest warrant for Franco. On September 1, 2022, with the assistance of Gang and Narcotics Division Marshall’s Task Force, Franco was located and arrested at a motel in Commerce, California. Franco was booked on 187 PC – Murder, Booking No. 6456261.

South Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department’s Central Bureau Homicide is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the suspects responsible for the death of a teenager who was fatally struck by two vehicles.

On August 21, 2022, around 2:51 a.m., Newton Division patrol officers responded to the area of 62nd Street and Avalon Boulevard for a radio call of an assault with a deadly weapon occurring in a parking lot. Upon arrival, officers discovered the victim, later identified as Mathew Lobos, a 17-year old male, a resident of Los Angeles, had been struck and was suffering from blunt force trauma injuries. LAFD personnel responded and pronounced Matthew dead at the scene.

Based on information gathered during initial investigation at scene, officers determined Matthew was stuck by two vehicles. The evidence also suggested he was purposely targeted.

Central Bureau Homicide responded and assumed investigative responsibility. The investigation revealed that Matthew and suspects became engaged in a physical dispute. After the fight, the suspects entered a black, compact SUV and drove in Matthew’s direction. One of the suspects exited the SUV and entered a partygoer’s white Acura sedan. The suspects both drove away from the party, made a U-turn and drove directly at Matthew, with both vehicles striking him. The suspects continued driving, made another U-turn and drove back in Matthew’s direction, who was being dragged out of the street by a friend. Matthew was struck a third time, by the Acura sedan, which continued until colliding with a light standard. The suspect from the Acura exited the vehicle and entered the SUV, which fled the scene.

Anyone with information regarding this case is urged to call Detective Salas, Los Angeles Police Department, Central Bureau Homicide, at (213) 996-4136. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org. Tipsters may also visit www.lapdonline.org, and click on “Anonymous Web Tips” under the “Get Involved-Crime Stoppers” menu to submit an online tip. Lastly, tipsters may also download the “P3 Tips” mobile application and select the LA Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.