An Attempt Robbery Turns to the Murder of a Business Owner

"An Attempt Robbery Turns to the Murder of a Business Owner "
 

Los Angeles: On Monday, November 12, 2001 at approximately 5:30 p.m., Roger Emilano Lunas, 66 years of age, was in his business, a minimart, on the 800 block of E. Washington Boulevard. Two armed suspects entered the business and during a robbery of the location, an exchange of gunfire took place between Mr Luna and one of the suspects, resulting in Mr. Luna being shot in the head and the suspect being shot in the upper torso. Both suspects ran from the location and left southbound on Griffith Avenue. The unidentified suspect who had sustained a gunshot wound to the chest ran for approximately one half of a block and collapsed.
Both Mr. Luna and the unidentified suspect were transported to a local hospital, where they failed to respond to treatment. Mr. Luna was pronounced dead from a gunshot wound to the head at approximately 6:25 p.m. The unidentified suspect was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.
It is unknown at this time if any property was taken. The outstanding suspect was described as a male Hispanic, 20-25 years of age, medium height, last seen running south on Griffith Avenue. The suspect should be considered armed and dangerous.
Newton Area Homicide Detectives are conducting this investigation. Anyone with information in regard to this incident is asked to call Detectives G. McKnight or R. Solorza at 323-846-6556 or Newton Area’s Watch Commander at 323-846-6547.
This press release was prepared by Police Officer Victoria Diaz, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.