Man Gunned down on Front Porch NR11588rh

Los Angeles:  Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Rampart Division Homicide detectives are asking for the public’s help in providing any information that would lead to the arrest of a suspect (s) who killed 41-year-old Juan Jose Barajas Jr. in Rampart area.

On December 17, 2011, at 12:18 a.m., Rampart Patrol Officers responded to an assault with a deadly weapon shots fired radio call in the 400 block of S. Witmer Street.  Barajas was found lying on the ground suffering from gunshot wounds.  

The Los Angeles Fire Department Paramedics transported Barajas to a local hospital where he was treated for a gunshot wound to the upper torso.  He failed to respond to treatment and died from his injuries.  

The Preliminary investigation revealed that Barajas was on the porch, in front of his apartment.  According to a witness that was with the victim the suspect(s) passed by in a car and for an unknown reason opened fire.  Several shots were fired at the victim with a medium caliber handgun.  

The suspects fled in a car that has been described as a gold colored sedan possibly Ford or Chevrolet.

Barajas is not a documented gang member.  The motive for this shooting is unknown.  

Anyone with information regarding this crime is urged to contact Rampart Homicide Detective J. Motto at 213-484-3641 or Detective Linscomb at 213-484-3642. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477). Tipsters may also contact Crime Stoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.