North Hills: On January 11, 2002, at 8:00 p.m., Devonshire Area patrol officers responded to a radio call regarding "Shots Fired" in the 15300 block of Parthenia Street. The responding officers found a male Hispanic, the victim of a gunshot, lying on a sidewalk adjacent to a mini-mall which is located on the northwest corner of the intersection of Parthenia Street and Columbus Avenue. The victim had sustained a gunshot wound in the lower body. The officers further discovered the lifeless body of a second gunshot victim lying in an alley way which allows access to the rear of several businesses that line the north side of Parthenia Street between Columbus Avenue and Sepulveda Boulevard.

Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics responded and transported the surviving victim to Holy Cross Hospital where he is listed in stable condition. The second victim was pronounced dead at the scene as a result of several gunshot wounds received in the upper body. He has been identified as George Pajuelo, a 21 year old documented gang member, and a resident of Van Nuys.

A male Hispanic suspect is believed to have been on foot at the time the shots were fired and then fled the scene in a vehicle. Witnesses indicated two male Hispanics immediately left the vicinity in an older model brown compact vehicle. A newer white passenger vehicle was observed leaving the scene. The vehicle contained three male Hispanics.

The motive for the attacks remains under investigation. The suspect or suspects are outstanding.

Anyone with information that may assist in this investigation is urged to call the Devonshire Homicide Unit at 818-756-8291 during business. On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24 hour toll free number at Detective Information Desk at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

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