16 Year-Old Girl Shot and Killed

May 13, 2003

 
Los Angeles: On Monday, May 12, 2003, 10:40 p.m., North Hollywood Area patrol officers responded to a shooting call in the 7600 block of Case Avenue in Sun Valley. Upon arrival, the officers discovered the victim, 16 year-old Martha Puebla, lying on the curb in front of her house. She had been shot multiple times and was pronounced dead at the scene by responding LAFD Paramedics.
Subsequent investigation revealed the victim had been at home with her family for the evening and for an unknown reason went outside to talk to someone. She was only outside for a few minutes when shots rang out in the neighborhood. Her father immediately ran outside and discovered her lifeless body.
Witnesses described the suspect who fled the scene as a medium build male Hispanic, 19-25 years of age, 5’8" to 5’10". He had very short hair and a mustache and appeared to be a gang member.
The motive for this killing has not been determined.

Anyone with information is requested to contact North Hollywood Area Detectives at 818-623-4045. On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at the Detective Information Desk at 1-877-LAWFULL, 1-877-529-3855.
This press release was prepared by Public Information Officer Jason Lee, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.