Los Angeles: On Saturday, June 15, 2002, at 2:50 a.m., West Valley patrol officers responded to a report of a shooting in the 21100 block of Wyandotte Street. When officers arrived they were directed by witnesses to the location of the victim who was lying on the sidewalk. Fire Department Paramedics arrived and transported the victim to Northridge Hospital where he died as a result of his injuries at 5:50 a.m.

The investigation has revealed that the victim and a friend were walking home, when the victim was suddenly approached by a male Hispanic (suspect), from an apartment building alcove. The victim and suspect argued briefly, when the suspect armed himself with a handgun, and fired at the victim several times, striking him in the back and leg. Two other male Hispanics joined the suspect and all three ran from the scene. The victim's friend ran to his home and phoned 9-1-1.

The victim has been identified as Carlos Gallegos, a 25 year old resident of Canoga Park, and was employed as a day laborer. No suspects have been identified or arrested in connection with this murder.

Anyone with information is asked to call West Valley Homicide Detectives at 818-756-8546 or a 24 hour toll free number is available at 1-877-529-3855. Information received will be handled in a strictly confidential manner.

This press release was prepared by Officer Don Cox, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.