Suspects Commit Homicide for Pack of Beer in Van Nuys Area

LOS ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
PRESS RELEASE
Friday, November 6, 1998
On July 11, 1995, at approximately 6:00 p.m., two men entered Top Produce Market, located at 7444 1/2 Van Nuys Boulevard, Van Nuys. The two suspects attempted to leave without paying for a pack of beer. The store owner, Jyotsna Prajapati, 30 years of age, tried to stop the suspects. One suspect turned and shot her once in the head. They then ran to the rear of the market into a waiting vehicle (a late model, black, possible Chevrolet Camaro). One of the suspects was observed carrying a handgun in his waistband and the second suspect was carrying a twelve (12) pack of beer under one arm. Prajapati was found dead inside the location from a gunshot wound to her head.

Aaron Reynoso, 19 years of age, has been identified as the male who shot and killed Jyotsna Prajapati. The District Attorney’s Office has charged Reynoso with one count of murder. Reynoso is currently in prison on an unrelated charge. He will formally be arraigned on the murder charge in the near future.

An outstanding suspect, Fernando Carbajal, 19 years of age, is wanted for questioning in this matter. A photo of the outstanding suspect will be available at the press conference.

For further information contact Detective Escoto, Van Nuys Detectives at (818) 756-8377.

For Release 10:10 am PST
November 6, 1998