Los Angeles: 77^th Division Homicide Detectives are investigating the following two separate homicides that occurred on June 24, 2002.

At approximately 11:20 am Jeffery Russell Chambers, a male Black, 21-years old, was standing on the sidewalk on the 7500 block of South Hoover Street, in Los Angeles. Two male Black suspects driving a possible 1987 Ford Thunderbird, fired numerous shots from a handgun, striking Jeffery Chambers in the head. The suspects fled driving away northbound Hoover Street toward Florence Avenue. Los Angeles Fire Department Paramedics responded and pronounced Jeffery Chambers dead at the scene. The motive for this homicide appears to be gang related.

At approximately 3:50 p.m. Eliodro Lara a male Hispanic, 69 years old standing in the rear alley of the 900 block of West 53^rd street, when he was struck by a stray bullet in the head. Lara was transported to a local hospital, where he died from his wounds. The suspects are two male Blacks. The motive appears to be gang related.

The two homicides do not appear to be related. Any one with information is asked to call 77^th Area Homicide Detectives at 213-485-1385. On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at the Detective Information Desk, 1-877- LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

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