Los Angeles: On April 21, 2004, at 8:30 p.m., two men walked to the Home Deport Store at 21218 Roscoe Boulevard in Canoga Park. As the men neared the entrance to the store a suspect, armed with a handgun, approached them and demanded their wallets. One of the victims complied however; the other victim was talking on his cellular telephone at the time and did not immediately respond to the suspect’s demand. The suspect shot him once in the stomach before removing the wallet from the wounded victim. The suspect was last seen running from the scene.

The wounded victim was later identified Martin Solis, 38 years of age. Los Angeles Fire Department Paramedics transported the victim to Northridge Hospital, where he was admitted in critical condition. Unfortunately, on April 25, 2004, at 1:33 p.m. Mr. Solis died as a result of his wounds.

The suspect his described as a male Hispanic. He has not been identified or arrested at this time.

Anyone with information that can assist in this investigation is asked to call West Valley Detectives at 818 345-2210. 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 news release was prepared by Public Information Officer Eduardo Funes, Media Relations Section, at 213 485-3586.