Gunman Kills 18-year-old Man

Los Angeles: Los Angeles police detectives are asking for the public’s help in finding any witnesses who may have seen the shooting death of a Van Nuys resident.

On Tuesday, March 6, 2007, at about 5:35 p.m., Juan Carlos Morales, 18, was standing with his younger brother on the sidewalk near Woodman Avenue and Hartland Street when a group of Hispanic men riding in a truck pulled along side them. After a brief argument one of the men pulled out a gun and fired several rounds at the brothers striking Morales in the chest.

Morales was taken to a local hospital where he died during surgery.

The suspect’s vehicle is described as a white sport utility truck.

The motive is believed to be gang related.

Anyone with information is asked to call Van Nuys Homicide Detectives at 213-374-0040. On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).