Westlake: Rampart Homicide Detectives are investigating the attempted murder of a 40-year-old male Black. On December 13, 2001 at approximately 1:05 a.m., Rampart Patrol officers responded to a shots fired investigation at 1212 South Alvarado Street. Upon arrival, the officers observed the victim slumped down in a vehicle, suffering from a gunshot wound to his head. Los Angeles Fire Department Paramedics responded and transported the victim to USC Medical Center. The victim is currently on life support systems.

The investigation has revealed that the victim was a passenger in the vehicle as the vehicle was eastbound on 12^th Place from Union Avenue. The victim’s vehicle stopped mid-block as a confrontation was in progress between two groups. The suspect’s vehicle was stopped on the wrong side of the street causing the victim’s vehicle to drive around them on the wrong side of the street. Seconds later witnesses observed the suspect lean out of the front passenger side holding a gun. The suspect then fired several shots into the direction of the group standing on the sidewalk. Several rounds struck the victim’s vehicle and a single round struck the victim.

The motive for the shooting is believed to be gang related. The suspects and weapon are outstanding. The identity of the victim is unknown.

The suspects are described as 3-5 male Hispanics, driving a possible 4-door, yellow or beige, Honda or Chevy. The shooter is described as a male Hispanic, 22/25 years of age, wearing a grey hooded sweatshirt. The weapon used was an automatic handgun.

Anyone with additional information regarding this crime is urged to contact the Rampart Homicide Unit at 213-207-2051 during business hours. On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at Detective Information Desk, 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

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