Victims Shot and Killed During Robbery

October 18, 1999

LOS ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
PRESS RELEASE
Monday, October 18, 1999
On October 16, 1999, at 1:50 a.m., patrol officers from the Los Angeles Police Department, Hollywood Community Police Station, responded to a shots fired radio call at the 5500 block of Romaine Street. Upon arrival, the officers found two victims of gunshot wounds lying on the ground in front of the location. The suspects had fled from the location prior to the officers’ arrival. Witnesses to the crime informed officers that the victims had been sitting in front of the residence when two suspects approached and demanded their money and valuables. During the robbery, the suspects shot both victims.

Paramedics from the Los Angeles Fire Department, responded to the location and pronounced the death of Pedro Quintanilla, 28 years of age. The Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office assumed control of the decedent. Mario Ayala, 29 years of age, was transported to a local hospital and received medical treatment for a gunshot wound.

The suspects were described as two male Hispanics, 20-25 years of age. One was described as having a close haircut and the other as having a shaved head. Their identity remains unknown.

Detectives from the Hollywood Homicide Section are handling the investigation. Anyone with information regarding the identity or whereabouts of the suspects involved in this incident can contact Hollywood Detectives at 213-485-4321.

For Release 7:40 am PST
October 18, 1999