WHO:
Wilshire Area Homicide Detectives and Family Members of the Victim

WHAT:
Press Conference Requesting the Public’s Help in the Homicide Investigation of Joseph Swift.

WHEN:
Monday, March 24, 2003, 12:00 p.m.

WHERE:
Wilshire Area Community Room
4849 Venice Boulevard
Los Angeles

Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department is requesting the public’s assistance in locating the suspect(s) responsible for the shooting death of 13 year-old Joseph Swift.

On March 23, 2003, at approximately 2:06p.m., Wilshire Area patrol officers responded to a radio call of a shooting in the 1800 block of West Street. Upon their arrival, they discovered the victim, 13 year-old Joseph Swift with a gunshot wound to the upper torso.

The preliminary investigation revealed that the victim had attended a church function just prior to the shooting. After exiting the church, the victim walked across the street when unidentified suspect(s) drove by the location and began shooting at pedestrians in front of location. Thirteen year-old Joseph Swift was struck by gunfire. He was the only one who was hit.

Los Angeles Fire Department Paramedics responded to the scene and transported Swift to a local hospital, where he died a short time later.

Wilshire Homicide Detectives are conducting the investigation. Anyone with information that may assist with this investigation is urged to contact Detectives T. Murrell or Detective J. Sandefur at 213-473-0444. On weekends and after hours, contact the toll free 24-hour number at the Detective Information Desk, 1-877-LAWFULL, 1-877-529-3855.

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