Los Angeles: On December 25, 2004, at approximately 1:20 a.m., Rampart Division Patrol Officers responded to a "shots fired" radio call at 3627 West 3rd Street, Los Angeles. When the officers arrived, they saw a male Hispanic, approximately 30 to 35 years old lying in the street suffering from gunshot wounds to his upper torso. Los Angeles Fire Department Paramedics responded to the location, treated the victim at the scene then transported him to a local hospital where he later died.

The detectives' investigation revealed that the victim was walking eastbound on 3rd Street, when a drive-by shooting occurred. The suspect's vehicle was described as a black Honda Accord or Civic and was last seen driving northbound on Catalina Street from 3rd Street. There is no additional information on the suspects or how many occupants were in the vehicle.

The weapon used was a semi-automatic handgun and the motive for the shooting is unknown.

The Rampart Division Homicide Detectives are asking for the public's help to provide information about this senseless crime. Any eyewitnesses are asked to contact Detectives Mota or Merlo, at 213-207-2060, during daytime hours. On weekends or after hours, contact the toll free 24-hour number at the Detective Information Desk, at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877- 529 3855).

This media advisory was prepared by the Los Angeles Police Department's Media Relations Section, at 213-485-3586.