Los Angeles: On Saturday, April 12, 2003, at approximately 2:20 p.m., the suspect, a male Black dressed in a white t-shirt and dark pants, walked into a place of business located in the 2300 block of West Exposition Boulevard.

According to the preliminary investigation, the suspect retrieved a handgun and for no apparent reason, shot a patron, Hector Zepeda, a 43 year-old male Hispanic. The suspect then demanded cash from the 41 year-old owner of the business. After receiving cash from the owner, the suspect shot the owner and then fled the scene.

Los Angeles Fire Department Paramedics responded to the scene and transported both victims to a near-by hospital. Hector Zepeda was pronounced dead. The second victim is currently hospitalized and being treated for a gunshot wound. He is expected to survive.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact the South Homicide Detectives at 213-485-2417. On weekends and during off-hours, please contact the 24-hour toll free number at the Detectives Information Desk at 1-877-LAWFULL, 1-877-529-3855.

This press release was prepared by Public Information Officer Adriana N. Sanchez, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.