Echo Park Murders; Suspect Arrested

What:
News Conference to announce the arrest of a suspect responsible for two murders plus and attempt murder.

When:
March 4, 2009
3:00 p.m.

Where:
Echo Park (Glendale Avenue and Park Street)
Los Angeles, CA  90026

Who:
Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa
Councilmember Eric Garcetti, Council District 13  
Councilmember Jose Huizar, Council District 14
LAPD Chief William J. Bratton
Captain William Murphy, Commanding Officer, Northeast Area
Homicide Detectives
            
Why:
On March 1, 2009, at approximately 5:00 p.m., victim, William Vargas was standing in front of his residence in the 2000 block of Echo Park Avenue, when he was confronted by the suspect who shot him then fled the location.  Vargas was transported to a local hospital where he was treated for his injuries and listed in stable condition.  

Immediately following the shooting of Vargas, at approximately 5:02 p.m., victim, Eric Zamarripa, was shot and killed two blocks away, on the 1600 block of Baxter Street.

At 5:25 p.m., victim, Carlos Gonzalez, was standing in front of his ex-wife’s residence on 4300 block of Toland Way, Gonzalez suffered numerous gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at scene.

All three shootings occurred within 30 minutes of each other.