Gang Members Arrested in Connection with Karaoke Club Shooting

Los Angeles: Los Angeles police have arrested four gang members in connection with a shooting that left two people seriously injured at a karaoke club parking lot on May 26, 2008.

On May 27, 2008, the suspects, a 17-year-old teen, who investigators identified as the shooter and a 14-year-old teen were arrested at a home in the 100 block of Virgil Avenue. A third suspect identified as Jae-Hyun Kim, 26, who harbored both juveniles was also arrested. The fourth suspect, identified as Tommy Hwang, 18, drove the getaway car was arrested a day later at his residence in the 2800 block of Francis Avenue.
The two juveniles and Hwang were charged with attempted murder. Kim was charged with harboring fugitives with a bail amount of $20,000. Hwang is being held on a $1 million bail.

The shooting occurred about 3:40 a.m. when a group of patrons leaving the karaoke club in the 4100 block of West Olympic Boulevard were embroiled in a verbal dispute with several gang members in the club’s parking lot. The dispute escalated and a fight broke out between the gang and the patrons.

One of the suspects pulled out a handgun; opened fire and struck two victims. The suspects took off in a late- model gray or silver vehicle.

Both victims were taken to a local hospital where they are listed in stable condition.

Investigators developed leads and learned the suspects were hiding at a gang member’s residence in the Koreatown area. All of the suspects are part of a local Korean street gang.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Wilshire Gang Impact Team detectives at 213-473-0444. On weekends or during off-hours, calls may be directed to the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).