Los Angeles: Rampart Homicide Detectives are investigating the attempted murder of a male Hispanic, approximately 20 years of age.

On October 21, 2002 at approximately 9:45 p.m., Rampart Area officers responded to an Assault with a Deadly Weapon shooting scene in the 2000 block of Santa Ynez Street. Upon arrival, the officers observed the victim on the street bleeding from a gunshot wound to his head. Los Angeles Fire Department Paramedics arrived and transported the victim to USC Medical Center where he was placed on life support systems.

The investigation revealed that the victim and a female companion were standing in front of a location on the 2000 block of Santa Ynez, when the suspect approached and removed a handgun from his waistband and shot the victim in the head. The suspect fled on foot eastbound on Santa Ynez then northbound on Alvarado Street. The suspect exchanged words in English prior to shooting the victim.

The motive is believed to be gang-related. The suspect is described as a male Hispanic 20/25 years of age, dark short hair, small nose, 5-9, 160 lbs., muscular built. He was wearing a white T-shirt, and blue levi pants.

The identity of the victim is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Rampart Homicide Unit at 213-207-2051. On weekend or after hours, call the toll free 24-hour number at the Detective Information Desk at 1-877-LAWFULL, 1-877-529-3855.

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