Famed Boxing Manager’s 32 Year-Old Murder Remains Unsolved

Los Angeles:  March 9, 2009 marks the 32nd anniversary of the murder of Howard (Howie) Steindler a famed boxing manager and owner of the celebrated Main Street Gym.

Mr. Steindler was a well known personality in the sport of boxing and was the inspiration for the character portrayed by Burgess Meredith in the Rocky films. On March, 9, 1977, at about 7:00 p.m., a witness observed Mr. Steindler at the corner of Lindley Avenue and Killion Street which was only a block from his home.  Steindler was involved in a confrontation with two unidentified black males who began beating Steindler and then forced him into his own vehicle, driving him away from the scene.  Within an hour, Steindler’s vehicle was discovered abandoned on the Ventura Freeway and Steindler was found dead in the car.  The investigation revealed that Steindler was robbed and to this day no suspects have been identified in this case.

The City of Los Angeles is offering a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to the identity, arrest and prosecution of the person(s) responsible for the murder.  The crime occurred in the North Hollywood Area of Los Angeles.

Robbery-Homicide Division detectives assigned to this investigation believe that people in the community or people within the boxing industry may have information that may lead to the assailants of Howie Steindler.   

Anyone with information concerning this kidnapping and murder is asked to call Robbery-Homicide Detectives Daniel Jaramillo or Greg Stearns at 213-485-2129, during regular business hours.  During off-hours calls may be directed to our 24-hour, toll-free number at 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (527-3247).  Callers may also text “Crimes” with a cell phone of log on to www.lapdonline.org and click on Web tips. When using a cell phone, all messages should begin with “LAPD.”  Tipsters may remain anonymous.