Winnetka - On Sunday, January 21, 2001, at approximately 11:00 p.m., 25 year old Ignacio Cruz, a resident of Van Nuys, got off the bus at Roscoe Boulevard and Winnetka Avenue and began walking to work. As he reached Winnetka Avenue at Arminta Street, two male suspects attacked him and knock him onto the street. The suspects beat and kicked the victim, then went through his pockets in an apparent robbery attempt. The suspects fled on foot westbound on Arminta Street as traffic began approaching them on Winnetka Avenue. A southbound vehicle on Winnetka Avenue struck the victim who was unconscious on the ground, inflicting serious injuries. The driver of the vehicle stopped immediately and called 911. The victim was transported to Northridge Hospital where he was admitted in gravely critical condition. The driver was questioned and released.

On January 25, 2001, the victim died at the hospital. His death is being investigated as a homicide. No suspects have been identified or arrested in connection with this case.

Anyone with information regarding the two suspects is requested to contact West Valley Homicide Detectives Dave Szabo or Todd Hankle at 818-756-8546 during business hours, or 213-485-2504 during evenings and weekends.

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