Los Angeles: On December 14, 2001 at approximately 5:22 p.m., a 38-year-old male Hispanic became the victim of a shooting while standing on the 1200 block of West Court Street. The victim was struck in the upper torso and fell to the ground. He was transported to USC Medical Center by paramedics where he failed to respond to treatment and was pronounced dead.

The preliminary investigation revealed that witnesses heard gunshots and observed the victim lying on the street, and two male Hispanic suspects were then observed running northbound on Bixel Street and jump into a possible Dodge vehicle, dark in color. The motive for the shooting is unknown and there are no suspects in custody.

Rampart Area Homicide Detectives are conducting the investigation. Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to call Rampart Homicide Detectives at 213-207-2051. On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at the Detective Information Desk at 1-877-LAWFULL, 1-877-529-3855.

This press release was prepared by Police Officer Jack Richter, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.