Los Angeles:  Newton police detectives are investigating a double homicide that occurred yesterday at 6724 South San Pedro Street at the Super Discount convenience store.

The incident began around 9:40 PM when two men confronted the store clerk, Robidio Espana, 31.  The confrontation scared Espana enough that after the men left, Espana armed himself with a revolver from the back room.

The two men, William Armistead, 23, and Courtney Whaley, 17, returned a short time later and confronted Espana again.  Espana apparently shot both men during the second confrontation and left the store. 

Whaley staggered out of the store and had a friend drive him to 431 East 71st Street, where paramedics were called.  He was taken by ambulance to the California Hospital, where he later died.

Espana's sister-in-law discovered Armistead in the store and called police.  Paramedics took Armistead to California Hospital, but he too later died.

Espana's family helped detectives locate Espana and convinced him to surrender.  Detectives have the revolver used in the shooting.  Espana was booked on two counts of murder, and the investigation is continuing.

Anyone with information is asked to call Newton Detective Division at 323-846-6556.  On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).