Los Angeles: On Monday, May 19, 2003, at approximately 11:15 p.m., Devonshire patrol officers responded to a radio call regarding multiple shots fired in the 9500 block of Van Nuys Boulevard, in Panorama City. Upon their arrival, officers observed the aftermath of a traffic collision involving a Cadillac and a lamppost on Plummer Street, west of Van Nuys Boulevard. The vehicle had two occupants. The driver sustained numerous gunshot wounds, which precipitated the traffic collision. The driver was transported to Holy Cross Hospital by Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics for emergency treatment. However, the victim died as a result of his injuries. The passenger in the vehicle did not require immediate medical attention.

The preliminary investigation revealed that the victim and the witness were leaving the alleyway adjacent to their residence on Van Nuys Boulevard. Two pedestrian suspects suddenly approached the victim's slow moving vehicle and fired several shots. The victim was struck as he attempted to accelerate the vehicle from harm’s way, which resulted in the traffic collision. The suspects fled the location by unknown means in an uncertain direction.

The victim has been identified as Henry Cox, a 32 year-old resident of Panorama City. The identity of the suspects is unknown. They have been described as male Blacks of unknown age. The motive for the crime is undetermined.

Anyone with information should contact the Devonshire Area Homicide Unit at 818-756-8291. 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 Renee’ Montoya, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.