Los Angeles: On Saturday, July 21, 2001, at approximately 2:50 A.M., Rampart Patrol Officers responded to an ambulance shooting call at the 1500 block of West Fourth Street. Upon arrival officers observed two shooting victims down on the sidewalk. One victim sustained a gunshot wound to his upper torso, and the second victim sustained a gunshot wound to his leg.

Los Angeles Fire Department Rescue ambulance responded to the location and transported the victim with the gunshot wound to the upper torso to Good Samaritan Hospital where he succumbed to his wounds.

The second victim was transported to a local Hospital and is in stable condition. His identity is unknown at the time of this release.

The investigation revealed three suspects, described as males, with shaved heads and wearing white T-shirts and dark colored pants, confronted the victims prior to the shooting. The suspects ran from the scene immediately after the shooting.

The deceased victim has been identified as Jose Barrajas, 19 years of age.

The motive for the shooting is believed to be gang related. The suspects are unknown and the weapon is outstanding.

Anyone with additional information regarding this crime is urged to contact Rampart Homicide Unit at 213-207-2051.

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