Domestic Violence Shooting Claims Mother of Two

Los Angeles: Police are investigating the murder of a young Los Angeles woman who was shot yesterday afternoon during an occurrence of domestic violence.

On Sunday, September 23, 2007, around 5:00 p.m., the victim, Sharon Carter, 31, of Los Angeles, was shot while driving her gray 2007 Nissan Pathfinder southbound in the 9600 block of South Compton Avenue.

The suspect, who was riding in the vehicle with her, is Stephen Mark Picart, 33, of Los Angeles. He is a male Black, 5’11", 150 pounds, and was last seen wearing a yellow Hawaiian-style shirt.

The victim and suspect were involved in a relationship and had previously lived together. There was a history of domestic violence. The victim’s two children, who were in the SUV with their mother and the suspect, witnessed the argument and shooting. Neither child was physically injured.

Immediately after the shooting, Carter’s vehicle collided with two cars at the location. The suspect exited the vehicle and ran northbound on Compton Avenue. Picart may now be driving a green 2002 Nissan Altima, California license 5VFN831.

A Los Angeles City Fire Department rescue ambulance responded to the scene and pronounced Ms. Carter deceased at 5:12 p.m.

A photograph of the suspect is available by request from Media Relations Section.

Anyone with information is asked to call Operations-South Bureau Homicide Detectives Sammy Marullo or  Nate Kouri, at 213-485-1383. After hours and on weekends, please phone the 24-hour Detective Information Desk at 1-877-LAW-FULL (529-3855).