Los Angeles – Rampart Homicide Detectives are investigating the murder of 21-year-old Jesus Hernandez.

On October 12, 2005, at about 2:45 AM, Rampart Area patrol officers responded to a shooting call at 1920 West Clinton Street. Officers' investigation revealed three male Hispanics attempted to enter apartment #8 at gunpoint when the tenant confronted them with a shotgun. Evidence at the scene indicated shots were fired and some of the suspects were shot and fled the scene on foot. The tenant in apartment #8 also fled the scene prior to the officers' arrival.

Additional officers responding to the area observed a male Hispanic juvenile, about 17 years of age, drop a handgun in the bushes. Officers pursued the suspect and took him into custody and recovered the handgun. A second suspect, 26-year-old male Hispanic, was located by responding officers in the area of Kent Street and Alvarado Street. He had been shot and suffering from a gunshot wound to his upper torso. He was taken to a local hospital in critical condition.

At about 5:55 AM, Rampart Homicide detectives received information that a third suspect was brought to Hollywood Presbyterian Hospital with a gunshot wound to his chest. He was pronounced dead on arrival.

The investigation revealed the three suspects were involved in the shooting incident at 1920 Clinton Street. The surviving suspects were taken into custody for Murder.

The motive for the shooting is believed to be gang related. The tenant who resided in Apartment #8 has not been located.

The Los Angeles Police Department is requesting assistance from the community, asking witnesses to contact Rampart Homicide Detectives J. Breuer or M. Mota at 213-207-2060. On weekends or during off-hours, contact the toll free 24-hour number at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).