Los Angeles: On August 21, 2002, at approximately 9:55 p.m., Rampart Patrol Officers responded to radio call regarding shots being fired at the corner of Westmoreland Avenue and Leeward Avenue. Upon arrival the officers found two male Hispanics down on the northeast corner suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.

Los Angeles Fire Department Paramedics responded to the scene and transported both victims to the Los Angeles County USC Medical Center. One of the victims was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital. The second victim was taken into surgery, however, he also died as a result of his injuries.

The preliminary investigation has revealed that the victims were standing on the northeast corner when the suspect got out of a vehicle, described as dark in color and possibly four doors. The suspect walked towards the victims, without any warning or provocation, pulled an unknown caliber handgun and shot multiple times. The suspect returned to the vehicle driven by an unidentified individual and fled the scene. The suspect was described as a Male Hispanic, approximately 25 years of age.

Based on the clothing description of the suspect and one of the victims it is believed this crime is possibly gang related.

The identity of the victims is being withheld pending notification of their next of kin.

Rampart Detectives J. Motto and J. Greenfield assumed responsibility of the investigation. Anyone with information that may assist in this investigation is urged to call Rampart Homicide at 213-207-2051. On weekends and during off –hours call the Detective Information Desk at the 24-hour toll free number, 1-877-LAWFULL.

This press release was prepared by Public Information Officer Eduardo Funes, Media Relations Section, 213-485-35586.