Los Angeles: On April 3, 2003 at about 8:30 p.m., Newton Area patrol officers responded to a shooting call in the area of 52^nd Street and Avalon Boulevard. Upon their arrival, they discovered a 23 year-old Black man, who was suffering from a gunshot wound to the leg. A second victim, a 4 year-old Hispanic girl was suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. Both victims were transported to area hospitals. The 23 year-old victim was listed in good condition and the 4 year-old girl was listed in critical condition.

The investigation revealed that the 23 year-old man was walking to a store when a small light colored car pulled up beside him and started shooting. He was hit in the leg as he attempted to flee. During the shooting, several rounds struck a car, that was parked on the street with the

4 year-old girl inside. There were several other family members in the car that were not hit.

This shooting appears to be gang related.

UPDATE: On Friday, April 9, 2004, 4 year old Erica Carpinteyro died as a result of her injuries.

Anyone with information regarding these murders is asked to contact Newton Area Homicide Detectives, at 323-846-6556. On weekends and during off-hours, please contact the 24-Hour toll free number at the Detective Information Desk, at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

This news advisory was prepared by Public Information Officer Jason Lee, Media Relations Section, at 213-485-3586.