WHO: Southeast Area Community Police Station

WHEN: Tuesday, July 6, 2004 at 10:00 a.m.

WHERE: Southeast Area Community Police Station located at 145 West 108th Street

Los Angeles- Southeast Homicide Detectives are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the suspects involved in the shooting death of 28 year-old Jason James.

On May 9, 2004 at about 2:00 p.m., Mr. James was inside of his residence watching the Los Angeles Lakers game on television. When the game ended, James and several other family members went outside to the front of their residence. Their attention was drawn to a male Hispanic suspect who appeared to be stealing a 1990 Toyota in the area of the 800 block of East Colden Avenue. The vehicle belonged to a neighbor who was known to James. James and several of his friends ran out onto the street and ran after the suspect. The auto theft suspect, seeing the group of citizens running towards him ran to a waiting vehicle where his accomplice began shooting at the citizens that attempted to thwart the car theft. Three people were struck by the gunfire, including James who received the more serious wounds. All three victims were transported to a local hospital by responding paramedics. Jason James died as a result of his gunshot wounds.

The victim’s family along with the two surviving shooting victims will be in attendance.

Anyone with information 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 Media Relations Section Staff, at 213-485-3586.