Los Angeles: Rampart Area Homicide Detectives are currently investigating the February 17, 2003, shooting death of Juan Torrecillas.

On Monday, February 17, 2003 at approximately 2:20 p.m., Rampart Area patrol officers responded to an "ADW, Shots Fired" radio call in the area of 14^th Street and Magnolia Avenue. Arriving at the location, the officers found victim Torrecillas in the alley west of Magnolia Avenue on the north side of 14^th Street. Los Angeles Fire Department Paramedics responded to the scene and transported Torrecillas to USC Medical Center where he died from his injuries.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Torrecillas was in the area of 14^th Street and Magnolia Avenue when the suspect confronted him. The suspect shot Torrecillas without any apparent provocation. Torrecillas collapsed in an alley west of the intersection.

The suspect was described as a male Hispanic, approximately 20 years of age. The suspect was dressed in dark blue pants, white and blue striped shirt, white shoes and a white and black knit cap. The suspect is not in custody and no weapon was recovered.

Anyone with further information is urged to contact Los Angeles Police Department Rampart Area Homicide Detectives at 213-207-2051. On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at the Detective Information Desk, 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

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