Homicide Occurs in West Valley Area

LOS ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
PRESS RELEASE
Saturday, November 7, 1998
On November 7, 1998 at 1:30 am, West Valley officers responded to an ambulance shooting radio call at 7040 Jordan Ave in Canoga Park. Upon their arrival they were directed by witnesses to the alley at the rear of the location, which is a large apartment complex. The officers observed the body of a 29 years old male, identified as Francisco Rojas, lying in the alley. Rojas had expired as the result of a gunshot wound to the head.

The investigation has revealed that Rojas and three of his relatives, had been standing in the alley talking and drinking alcohol when they were approached by four male Hispanic suspects who were armed with guns and a baseball bat. The suspects attacked the four victims and Francisco Rojas was shot and killed. The suspects fled in a large, late model vehicle. The victims were not involved in gang activity, however, it is believed that the suspects are members of a Canoga Park area street gang.

It is believed that the motive for the killing stems from an earlier confrontation between the victim’s brother and the family of one of the suspects.

One of the suspects, a 14 year old juvenile, has been identified and is being sought at this time. The investigation is continuing.

If you have any information regarding this incident, contact Detectives Andy Purdy or Terrill West, West Valley Detectives at (818) 756-8546.

For Release 10:55 am PST
November 10, 1998