Two Teens Shot, 1 Killed in Harbor City

Los Angeles:  Los Angeles Police Detectives are asking for the public’s help in identifying the suspects responsible for the shooting death of 17-year-old James Franklin, and wounding another 18-year-old male.

On Wednesday, April 8, 2009 at about 7:50 p.m., the victims were walking on Marigold Avenue at 256th Street when the suspects walked towards them.  The suspects suddenly began shooting.  Franklin was shot multiple times in the leg and groin, the 18 year-old male was shot in the back with a semi-automatic handgun.

Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics responded and transported the victims to a local hospital.  Franklin died the next day from his injuries. The 18 year-old male is listed in stable condition.

Detectives have determined that the shooting appears to be gang related.  
There is no suspect description at this time.    

Anyone with information regarding this murder investigation is asked to contact Harbor Area Homicide Detectives J. Benavides and F. Rivas at 310-522-2036.  After hours or on weekends, calls may be directed to a 24-hour, toll-free number at 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (527-3247) or by texting CRIMES (274637) and beginning the message with the letters LAPD.  Tipsters may also submit information on the LAPD website:  www.lapdonline.org.  All tips may remain anonymous.