Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department, Wilshire Area Homicide Detectives are investigating the shooting death of a male Black, approximately 25 years of age.

On October 18, 2002, at approximately 11:45 p.m., Wilshire Area officers responded to the scene of a shooting in the 5300 block of Wilshire Boulevard. Upon arrival, the officers responded to the second floor hallway area, where they found the deceased, lying on the floor. The victim received a gunshot wound to the neck. Los Angeles Fire Department Paramedics responded and pronounced the victim dead at the scene.

The victim’s name is being withheld pending notifications to next of kin.

According to witness statements, the victim became involved in a physical altercation with a suspect prior to the shooting incident. After shooting the victim, the suspect fled the scene in an unknown direction.

Preliminary investigation revealed a second crime scene in the rear parking lot of the location, with evidence of at least ten shots fired and three automobiles struck by bullets, after the homicide had occurred. At this time, it is unknown if the suspect was responsible for the shooting in the parking lot, or if he was being shot at by an unknown suspect.

The motive for the murder is under investigation at this time. The suspect was described only as a male.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Wilshire Homicide Unit at 213-473-0400. 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 Jason Lee, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.