Sun Valley: On Thursday, August 2, 2001, at 3:17 a.m., North Hollywood Area patrol officers responded to a citizen call of a "Dead Body Investigation" located on the east side of the northbound Golden State Freeway at Lankershim Boulevard in the Sun Valley area of Foothill Division. Upon arrival at the scene, officers located a decomposed body of a male of unknown descent or age. The body was in the bushes on the side of the freeway. The cause of death is unknown.

Foothill Homicide detectives responded to the location and assumed responsibility for the investigation along with the Los Angeles County Coroner's Investigators.

***Press Release Update, August 20, 2001***

On Monday, August 20, 2001, Foothill Operations Support Division Homicide Detectives received the identity of the victim, who was found dead on Thursday, August 2, 2001, at 3:17 a.m. The cause of death was determined to be the result of gunshot wounds. The victim has been identified as 26 year old Nicholas Pedro Armand, a resident of Sunland. He was identified through fingerprints.

The motive for the murder is still unknown.

The Los Angeles Police Department is seeking assistance from witnesses who may have information, which may assist detectives in their investigation. The community is asked to call 818-834-3115 or 818-834-3105, during daytime hours. During the off-hours, call Foothill Area Watch Commander at 818-756-8861.

This press update was prepared by Public Information Officer Jason Lee, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.