Man Killed as a Birthday Party Ends NR10499cj

Los Angeles:  Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Foothill Homicide detectives are asking for the public’s help with providing information involving a Pacoima man who was shot and killed at a birthday party.

On October 24, 2010, around 3:09 a.m. LAPD Foothill Area patrol officers responded to a shooting call in the 11500 block of Fellows Avenue in Pacoima.  When the officers arrived, they discovered a man lying on the ground suffering from an apparent gunshot wound.  Los Angeles City rescue personnel responded and pronounced the man dead at the scene.  The man was identified as 21-year-old Francisco Leon Jr.
   
LAPD Foothill Homicide detectives’ investigation revealed Leon was attending a party that was nearing its end when a man approached him and asked for his gang affiliation.  The man then pulled out a gun, shot Leon and left the scene.  

Detectives say that Leon had no known or apparent gang ties and the motive for the shooting is unknown.  The suspect is described as an 18 to 25-year-old male Hispanic wearing dark clothing.

Anyone with information regarding this crime is urged to call Foothill Homicide Detectives Martinez or Gahry at 818-834-3115.  During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7.   Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).  Tipsters may also contact Crimestoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.