Man Fatally Shot While Walking Down Street

Los Angeles: A pedestrian walking on West Jefferson Boulevard died of gunshot wounds from a passing vehicle.

On February 12, 2008, at approximately 10:30 p.m., 53-year-old Craig Michael Cooper was walking near 1926 W. Jefferson Blvd. when a passenger in an eastbound white-colored vehicle pulled adjacent to him and fired several gunshots out the window, striking the victim and causing him to collapse on the sidewalk. The vehicle then continued heading east a short distance and turned north onto St. Andrews Place.

Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers and Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics arrived on the scene. Cooper was immediately transported to a local hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after 11 p.m.

The motive for the killing is believed to be gang related. The suspects are still at large and no weapons have been recovered.

The LAPD is seeking assistance from the community, asking witnesses or any others with information to contact South Bureau Homicide Detectives Rick Gordon or Dave Garrido at 213-485-1383. During off hours, including weekends, calls may be directed to 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).