News Release

Monday, March 15, 2004

Gang Related Drive By Shooting Investigation

Los Angeles: Southeast Area Homicide Detectives are investigating the shooting death of 42 year-old Demetta Brooks, a resident of Los Angeles.

Brooks was standing with a group of friends in front of a residence in the 100 block of east 87^th Street. A late model, gold sedan containing two male Black suspects drove by the location when the passenger suspect began firing a handgun at the group. Brooks was hit by the gunfire and collapsed at the scene. Los Angeles Fire Department Paramedics responded and pronounced Brooks dead at the scene. A second victim, a 49 year-old woman, was also struck by the gunfire in the stomach. She is being treated at a local hospital and is listed in stable condition.

The motive appears to be gang related.

Anyone with in formation regarding this incident is urged to contact Southeast Homicide Detectives, at 213-485-6902. On weekends and during off-hours, contact the 24-hour toll free number at the Detective Information Desk, at 1-877- LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

This news release was prepared by Public Information Officer Jason Lee, Media Relations Section, at 213-485-3586.