Los Angeles: On August 5, 2004, at 9:30 p.m., Newton officers responded to a radio call of an "Ambulance Shooting" in the 200 block of East 53rd Street. Upon their arrival they located Hugo Bermudez, male Hispanic, 27 years of age, suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. Bermudez was transported to a local hospital where he died as a result of his injuries.

It appears that Bermudez was driving a truck with his friend when he was approached by Roberto Ramirez, male Hispanic, 27 years of age. Ramirez exited his vehicle and engaged the victim in a verbal altercation. Ramirez pulled a gun and shot Bermudez once in the chest. Bermudez attempted to flee the scene and later collapsed in his vehicle. Ramirez fled the scene in a 2001 Chevy Tahoe, 4-door, black/gray, license plate number 5EFM191.

The investigation revealed the shooting was the result of an earlier argument the suspect and victim had over a threat that was made.

Anyone with information regarding this case is asked to contact Newton Homicide Detectives at 323-846-5363.

This news release was prepared by Media Relations Section, at 213-485-3586.