Los Angeles: On August 18, 2002, at approximately 2:20 a.m., a male Hispanic confronted 22 year-old Carlos Florina, in the parking lot across from the Margarita Jones night club, located near 37th Place and Flower Street. The man accused Mr. Florina of being a gang member and, after arming himself with a handgun, shot the victim.

The Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics responded to the scene and pronounced the victim dead from gunshot wounds.

The suspect, described as a male Hispanic, 21 to 27 years of age, 5 feet 6 inches tall, 150 to 170 lbs, with black hair, fled in a vehicle described as a newer model, gray or silver, 4 door, possible Ford Expedition. The second suspect, who was driving the vehicle, is described as a male Hispanic, 23 to 26 years of age, with a shaved head.

The victim had no gang affiliation.

Southwest Homicide detectives assumed responsibility for the investigation. Anyone with information that may assist in this investigation is urged to contact Detectives R. Razanskas or R. Gordon at 213 485-2417. On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at the Detective Information Desk, 1 877 LAWFULL.

This press release was prepared by Public Information Officer Eduardo Funes, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.