Los Angeles: On Wednesday, January 9, 2002, at approximately 7:00 PM., the victim, described as a male Hispanic, 14 years of age, along with an unidentified companion, were outside a fast food restaurant located at 4319 West Sunset Boulevard. The victim and his companion were confronted by unknown, armed suspect or suspects who shot at the victim. The victim was fatally injured by the gunfire and was pronounced dead at the scene by responding Los Angeles Fire Department paramedic. The suspect or suspects fled the scene after the shooting, as did the victim’s companion.

The motive for this crime is under investigation. The suspect or suspects are outstanding.

Northeast Operations Support Division Detectives J. Berdin and R. Lopez responded to the scene and assumed responsibility for the investigation. Anyone with information regarding this investigation is urged to call homicide detectives at 213-847-4261 or, during off-hours, 1-877-LAWFULL.

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