Los Angeles: Southeast Homicide Detectives are investigating the shooting death of 61 year-old Teodoro Penaloza.

On June 7, 2004, at about 7:35 p.m., Mr. Penaloza was working as a uniform security guard at the Hays Tabernacle AME Church, located at 10121 South Central Avenue. He was approached by two or three Black male suspects in the parking lot. The suspects engaged in a brief conversation and one of the suspects shot Mr. Penaloza with an unknown type handgun. The suspects then ran away from the location.

Los Angeles Fire Department Paramedics responded and transported Mr. Penaloza to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead a short time later.

Investigating detectives believe possible robbery may have been the motive. The suspects are only described as Black males, 15 to 18 years of age.

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 Public Information Officer Jason Lee, Media Relations Section, at 213-485-3586.