Road Rage Incident Ends in Death NR13239pv

Arleta:  Detectives have released an image of a late-model gray Dodge Challenger, whose driver was involved in a fatal road-rage incident this afternoon, July 13, in Arleta.

“A camera in the area captured the gray Challenger passing the victim’s red Kia on Branford Avenue, just moments before the fatal shot occurred,” said Lt. Paul Vernon, commanding officer of the Mission Detective Division.  “We hope the image might prompt someone to recognize the car and tie it to the owner.”

The shooting occurred just after 3 PM as the two cars passed under the 5 Freeway.  According to witnesses, a single shot came from the green-eyed Hispanic driver as he passed the Kia on the right.  The 22-year-old driver of the Kia was hit and died hours later at a local hospital.  His two companions were uninjured.  They are cooperating with detectives.  

“With the car’s detailed description and the distinct eye color of the suspect, these clues go beyond the typical general descriptors, so we hope they will generate some good leads,” Lt. Vernon explained.

Anyone with information is urged to call Detective Ryan Verna, Mission Homicide Unit, at 818- 838-9976.  During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247).  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.