Los Angeles: Rampart Homicide Detectives are investigating the death of a female Hispanic, 37 years of age.

On September 29, 2002, at approximately 2:00 p.m., Rampart Area patrol officers responded to a shooting call at 136 South Virgil Avenue. Upon arrival, the officers observed the victim down in the bedroom suffering from a gunshot wound. Los Angeles Fire Department Paramedics responded and pronounced the victim dead at the scene.

The investigation revealed the victim and her common-law husband became involved in an argument. The suspect produced a handgun and shot and killed the victim. The suspect possibly drove away from the scene in a 1997 green Nissan Maxima, no further description. The suspect has been identified as Alex Tovar, a male Hispanic, 28 years of age.

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

The Los Angeles Police Department is seeking assistance from the public, asking witnesses who may know the whereabouts of suspect Tovar, to contact Rampart Homicide Detectives at 213-207-2051. 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.