Los Angeles: On February 13, 2004, at about 4:45 p.m., a group of young men were loitering in the 700 block of East 97^th Street with another group from a nearby neighborhood. Several men from the group began to argue. The argument escalated and two or three of the suspects armed themselves. Several shots were fired, leaving two men wounded.

Los Angeles City Fire Department Paramedics responded to the scene and pronounced 29 year-old Gregory Patterson dead at the scene. A second victim, 24 year-old Brandon Melon was transported to an area hospital where he is listed in stable condition.

It is unknown if this case is gang related.

Anyone with in formation regarding this incident is urged to contact Southeast Homicide Detectives, at 213-485-6902. On weekends and during off-hours, please contact the 24 hour toll free number at the Detective Information Desk, at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

This news release was prepared by Public Information Officer Adriana N. Sanchez, Media Relations Section, at 213-485-3586.