Roommates Discover Victim Dead Outside Residence

LOS ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
PRESS RELEASE
Wednesday, January 5, 2000
On Wednesday, January 5, 2000, at approximately 2:00 a.m., witnesses heard gunshots in the 300 Block of West 1st Street. At approximately 2:30 a.m., the victim who lived nearby had not returned to his apartment. His roommates became concerned and went outside to look for him. Moments later, the victim’s body was discovered on the ground.

Harbor Area patrol officers and the Los Angeles City Fire Department Paramedics were dispatched to the scene. The victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene at approximately 2:45 a.m.

The motive for the crime is unknown. The suspect(s) and murder weapon is outstanding.

Harbor Area Homicide Detectives are handling the investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call Detectives O. Joya or G. Hoyte at 310-548-7447.

The victim has been identified as Richard Mendoza, 24 years old and a resident of San Pedro.

For Release 4:35 pm PST
January 5, 2000