LAPD Blog

Two Fatal Shootings in Hollywood Last Night

 Los Angeles: A man was killed and a woman wounded during a drive-by shooting in the 5200 block of Sunset Boulevard last night, March 28, 2007, and another man was found dead around 4:00 A.M. in another part of town. Detectives do not believe the shootings are related.

Around 11:30 last night, a 41-year-old Hispanic man was shot in the head and killed and a 44-year-old woman was shot in the shoulder during a drive-by shooting in Hollywood. 

The man and woman were walking in the parking lot of the 99-cent store when a white car drove by.  Occupants yelled the name of a gang and fired.

Around 4:00 o’clock this morning officers in Hollywood answered a report of a man found shot in the head, lying on the sidewalk near the corner of Beachwood Drive and Santa Monica Boulevard. 

The man has not been identified, but he is Hispanic and in his twenties.

Through last Saturday, homicides stood at three, the same number for the same period last year.  The homicide rate in Hollywood is among the lowest in the city this year.  Seven out of the 19 police stations have fewer homicides so far this year.

Anyone with information is asked to call Hollywood Homicide Unit at 213-972-2910.  On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

Gunfire Leaves a Baby Girl Fighting For Her Life

Los Angeles: Los Angeles police detectives are requesting the public help in identifying the shooters who left a baby girl in critical condition and a second victim in stable condition in south Los Angeles.

On March 26, 2007, at around 12:10 a.m., Rebekah Harris, 26, of San Bernardino and her two children were in a car and had just driven up to the 900 block of east 94th Street to drop off a friend.  A car pulled up next to them and opened fire.  One of the rounds struck the 18-month-old girl in the face as she sat in her car seat in the back of the car.  Hollis Roberts, 25, who was standing next to the car, was struck in the chest and leg.  The woman and the other child were
not injured. 

Roberts and the baby were transported to a local hospital. The child is listed in critical condition and Roberts is in stable condition. 

The suspect is described as a male Black, 18-20 years old, wearing a baseball cap and a dark hooded sweatshirt.  The suspect’s car is described as a silver or tan 1994 or 1995 Oldsmobile 88, 4 door, with chrome wheels, tinted windows.  It was very clean looking.

***UPDATE***

Despite treatment the baby girl died on March 27, 2007.

Anyone with information is asked to call Southeast Area Homicide Detective LaBarbera at 213-972-7848.  On weekends or during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

Murder-Suicide Takes 4 Lives

Los Angeles: A 29-year-old man shot his two daughters and his 25-year-old common-law wife then killed himself last night at a home in the 800 block of 82nd Street.

On March 28, 2007, at around 10:00 p.m., Gabriela Gonzalez returned to her residence with her 2-year-old daughter, Gabriela Melara, and Gonzalez's 15-year-old sister.  Gonzalez' husband, Fredy Melara, was inside the home with their 15-month-old child, Asbel Melara.

According to the sister, who is the family's babysitter, Melara was upset at his wife when they arrived.  Gonzalez entered the home with her daughter, but the babysitter remained locked outside.  Amid the yelling, she heard Gonzalez scream, "Freddy! No, no," followed by the sound of gunshots.  The girl ran to a neighbor's house and called police.

When the officers arrived they learned Melara was an armor car security guard who had a gun and body armor. Officers presumed Melara was barricaded inside the residence with hostages.  The officers summoned SWAT.

SWAT officer scouted the home and noticed two victims down inside the home.  The officers conducted an emergency entry and found Melara, both daughters, and Gonzalez shot in the head.  Detectives believe Melara shot his family then turned the gun on himself. 

Detectives found no prior criminal record for Melara, nor any evidence of restraining orders.

Anyone with information is asked to call 77th Street Homicide Division Detectives Joseph Chavez or Tracy McClanahan at 213-485-1383. On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

Robbery Suspects Caught on Surveillance Camera

Los Angeles: Los Angeles police detectives are requesting the public's help in identifying two suspects caught on surveillance camera during a robbery at a car wash in Boyle Heights.

On Friday, March 16, 2007, at about 8:10 PM, two suspects walked into the business office of Tio's Car Wash, located at 3442 East Whittier Boulevard. One of the suspects armed with a handgun and ordered the business manager to the floor, while the second suspect removed money from the cash register.

Both suspects were described as male Hispanics. The armed suspect was 6’ tall, 230 lbs., 20 to 25 years of age with thick black hair and a thin mustache. He was wearing a black jacket, white striped shirt with green pants and white shoes.

The second suspect was about 5’ 7” tall, 150 lbs., also about 20 to 25 years of age. He was wearing all dark clothing and had a shaved head.

To see video, click here--> Robbery suspects.

Anyone who recognize these suspects is asked to call Hollenbeck Robbery Detectives at 323-526-3134. On weekends and during off-hours call the 24-hour toll free number at the Detective Information Desk at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

Traffic Collision Takes Life of Newport Beach Man, Injures Pedestrian

Los Angeles: A man involved in a traffic accident Monday afternoon caused multiple additional collisions when he tried to get away.  A Newport Beach man lost his life as a result.

On March 26, 2007, around 4:45 p.m., a two-vehicle collision occurred when the driver of a 1999 GMC Yukon, Alfredo Cesar Ramirez, 33, of Los Angeles, struck the rear of a 1999 Honda Civic, near the intersection of Central Avenue and 6th Street.  Ramirez fled the scene without identifying himself or rendering aid to the other driver.

Ramirez sped west on 8th Street at a high rate of speed, then north on San Pedro Street.  At the intersection of San Pedro and 7th Street, Ramirez ran a red light, striking a vehicle driven by Stephen Howard Anthony, 48, of Newport Beach. The force of the impact caused Mr. Anthony's vehicle to veer 80 feet north on San Pedro Street.  A pedestrian crossing San Pedro Street westbound in the crosswalk was struck by Mr. Anthony's vehicle.

Ramirez's Yukon continued out of control and collided with a 1956 Chevrolet in the southbound #2 lane on San Pedro Street.  The Chevrolet in turn careened backward and struck a 2005 Toyota Camry parked on San Pedro Street.

Mr. Anthony died of his injuries at the scene.  The pedestrian was hospitalized at a local hospital with a fractured pelvis.  The driver of the Chevrolet complained of pain but did not require medical attention.

Ramirez who also sustained injuries in the accidents, was arrested for murder 187 PC and taken by paramedics to the University of Southern California Medical Center Jail Ward.

Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Michael Kaden, Central Traffic Division, at 213-972-1825.  On weekends and during off-hours, phone the Central Traffic Division Watch Commander at 213-972-1853.

Shooting Investigation Turns Into Murder Investigation

Los Angeles: What began as a shooting investigation on Sunday evening turned into a homicide investigation after the shooting victim died of his injuries.

On March 25, 2007, at 6:50 PM, Mission Area officers responded to a assault with a deadly weapon call in the 9100 block of Tobias Avenue in Panorama City. When they arrived, police found Hector Balderas, 19, of Panorama City, lying unconscious on the sidewalk, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. 

Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics transported Balderas to a local hospital for treatment.  He was pronounced dead Monday, March 26, 2025 at 12:55 PM.

Detectives believe this is a gang related shooting and they are asking for anyone with information about this crime to contact Detective Gene Parshall or John Macchiarella of Mission Area Detectives at 818-838-9810.  On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

Fatal Hit and Run on PCH, Police Ask for Public's Help

Los Angeles: A man crossing Pacific Coast Highway during the pre-dawn hours of Thursday morning was struck and killed by an unknown motorist.  Police are asking for the public's assistance in finding the responsible driver.

On March 22, 2007, at approximately 5:35 a.m., Robert Davidson, 39, of Los Angeles, was crossing Pacific Coast Highway south of Temescal Canyon Road.  As he crossed, outside of a crosswalk, he was struck by a vehicle traveling north on PCH.  The vehicle did not stop.  It is a felony to leave the scene of an injury accident.

Paramedics responded and pronounced Mr. Davidson deceased at the scene.

Police are requesting anyone with information on the identity of the hit-and-run driver, or any witness who saw the collision, to call Officer George Bowens, West Traffic Division, at 213-473-0234.  On weekends and during off-hours, phone the West Traffic Division Watch Commander at 213-473-0222.

Police Commission Weekly Meeting

Notes from the March 27, 2025 Police Commission Weekly Meeting

• Police Commission Vice President Alan J. Skobin was absent today.
• This year there have been 6 restorations. Last week there were 16 retirements. There are currently 399 recruits in the Academy. The Department is prepared for the upcoming first departures from the DROP Program.
• All hearing examiners, including Board of Review hearing examiners, will attend a mandatory training session this Saturday.
• The annual C-PAB Summit will take place this Saturday at Occidental College.
• The next Los Angeles Police Commission Community Meeting will take place Thursday, March 29, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. at Vineland Elementary School, 10150 La Tuna Canyon Road, Sun Valley, 91352. The Los Angeles Police Commissioners, Chief William Bratton, and Council Member Wendy Greuel will all be present. The public is invited to attend. Please call (213) 485-3531 with any questions.

Accidental Discharge with no Injuries

Los Angeles: A Los Angeles police officer accidentally discharged a police shotgun in the station parking lot.

On March 25, 2025 at about 6:35 AM, Officer Ginger Harrison assigned to Devonshire Area, was conducting a safety check of the police shotgun when a round was accidentally discharged.

Officer Harrison was outdoors in the station's open parking lot when it occurred.

No one was injured as a result of the accidental discharge. 

Officer Harrison, 33, has been with the Department for 12 years and 2 months.

Devonshire Area is handling the investigation.

Questions may be directed to Media Relations Section at 213-485-3586.   

Two Sisters Struck, Publics Help Requested To Find Driver

Los Angeles: Two sisters from North Hollywood crossing a Valley street on the evening of March 16, 2007, were struck and seriously injured by a hit and run driver.  Detectives request the public's help to find the person responsible.

It was Friday night, at around 9:50 p.m., when 23 year old Maria Oganesian, and her little sister, Hilary Oganesian, 17, were crossing the street at Ventura Boulevard and Beverly Glen Boulevard in Van Nuys.

As they walked across the street the driver of a 2000 to 2002 four door Chevy Cavalier, light in color, struck them. After hitting the pair, the suspect sped away without stopping to render aide or to identify himself, as required by law.

Witnesses described the suspect as a male with dark hair, medium weight, 20 to 30 years old, with a dark complexion. 

Maria is still hospitalized and is awaiting further surgeries.  Hilary has been released from the hospital, and is at home recovering from her injuries.  Both women received injuries ranging from broken hips to severe internal trauma. 

Anyone with information is asked to call Valley Traffic Division, Officer Douglas Larkin at 818-374-1942. On weekends and during off-hours, phone the 24-hour toll free Detective Information Desk at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

Man Arrested for Shooting at Police

Los Angeles: A man was arrested after shooting at police early Monday morning in Canoga Park. On March 26, 2007, shortly after 6 AM West Valley officers responded to a "Shots Fired" radio call in the area of Valerio Street and Loma Verde Avenue.  The officers were driving westbound on Valerio Street when they observed the suspect, Carey Cahill, standing between two parked vehicles and shooting in the officer's direction. 

Officer Baeza returned fire.  Cahill then dropped to the ground and was taken into custody without further incident.  He was booked for Attempt Murder on a Police Officer and was held on one million dollars bail.

A loaded 22 Caliber Semi-Automatic pistol was recovered at scene as well as several expended 22-caliber casings.  Neither the officers nor the suspect were injured as a result of the shooting.

Officer Sven Steffenson, 39, has 6 years, 6 months with the department. Officer Osmani Baeza, 32, has 5 years and 1 month with the LAPD.  Both officers are assigned to West Valley Division. 

Force Investigation Division personnel responded to the scene and are investigating the officer-involved shooting.

Questions may be directed to Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.

Murder Arrest in Hollywood

Los Angeles: A suspect was arrested early this morning after a fatal stabbing in Hollywood.

On Sunday, March 25, 2007, at approximately 12:55 a.m., Hollywood Area officers responded to a radio call of two men fighting at 6300 Delongpre Avenue.  When they arrived, police found the victim unconscious and not breathing inside his vehicle at 1413 North Vine Street.  Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics pronounced the victim dead at 1:13 a.m.  The cause of death was multiple stab wounds.

A suspect was taken into custody and identified as Michael Baskin, 34, of Los Angeles.

The identity of the victim has not been released pending notification of family.

Hollywood homicide detectives determined that the stabbing occurred during a fight between the victim and suspect.

Anyone with information on this crime is asked to called Hollywood homicide detectives at 213-972-2910 or 972-2915.

Questions may be directed to Media Relations Section.

Studio City Murder Suspect in Custody

Los Angeles:  A man was arrested early Sunday morning in the 10900 block of Bluffside Drive after he fatally stabbed an acquaintance.

On Sunday March 25, 2007, at approximately 8:05 AM, Anthony Lovato, 26, of Studio City, became involved in an argument with Wayne Hughes, 25, from Cathedral City. 

The argument escalated into a physical altercation and Lovato used a knife to stab Hughes multiple times.

Hughes was transported to a local hospital where he died a short time later. 

Lovato was arrested for murder and remains in custody.

Anyone with information on this crime is asked to call North Hollywood Homicide Detectives Thomas Townsend or Timothy Kirkpatrick at 818-623-4075. On weekends and during off-hours, phone the 24-hour toll free Detective Information Desk at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855)

Elderly Pedestrian Struck and Killed by Car, Driver Sought

Los Angeles: An unidentified woman was fatally struck by a car Saturday evening in the Avalon Gardens area of Los Angeles.  The driver of the vehicle is being sought for questioning.

On March 24, 2007, at approximately 7:30 P.M., the Hispanic woman in her 60s was pushing a shopping cart across Avalon Boulevard at 41st Street.  A car traveling south on Avalon struck her as she attempted to cross the street.  The vehicle was a gray possible Toyota Corolla, Camry or Tercel with a black hood.  The victim was projected onto the hood and carried for nearly a block before being thrown off. 

The driver never stopped.  It is a felony to leave the scene of an injury accident.

The woman sustained extensive blunt force trauma.  Paramedics rushed her to California Hospital where she died of her injuries.

Police are asking for the public's help in identifying the woman and locating the driver. Anyone with information is asked to call Central Traffic Detective Michael Kaden at 213-972-1825, or the Central Traffic Watch Commander at 213-972-1853.  On weekends and during off-hours, phone the 24-hour toll free Detective Information Desk at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

Gang Member Arrested for Shooting at Police

Los Angeles: A gang member fired on two police officers last night, March 24, 2007, as the officers drove past the suspect and his two companions.  One officer returned fire.  While no one was injured, all three men were captured, and officers found a .45 caliber handgun.

"It's hard to say whether the gunman knew his targets were police," said LAPD spokesman Lieutenant Paul Vernon.  "What it demonstrates is the propensity for gang members to attack perceived ‘outsiders' who venture into claimed territory.  Such is the nature of the gang mentality."

Officer Frank Marino, 32, and his partner from the Wilshire Police Station were patrolling near 15th Street and Manhattan Place just after midnight on March 24.  They noticed three men walking westbound on the sidewalk as the officers were driving past in the same direction. Brandin Bell, 22, raised a gun and started shooting without any warning. 

Officer Marino was able to return fire.  Bell's two companions surrendered quickly, while Bell ran and hid.  Police cordoned off the area.  A police dog and his handler founded Bell hiding in a nearby carriage house.  After Bell surrendered, police found the .45 caliber semi-automatic handgun in the building.

Bell was booked on a charge of attempted murder.  He is a documented local gang member.  His two companions were questioned and released.

Last night's shooting was the second time this year that a gang member fired on undercover officers.  On February 2, a gunman chased after an unmarked police car near Figueroa
and 46th Streets after the two officers merely drove by.  Officers returned fire and captured the gunman and the two other men with whom he had been loitering.

Last night also was the sixth time officers have been fired upon this year, on a par with the same period last year.  In all six cases, suspects have been apprehended, and all but one the assaults were committed by gang members. 

It was the 17th time officers fired at suspects this year, compared to seven officer-involved shootings for the same period last year.  Two officers have been wounded by suspects this year.

Officer Marino has over 4 years with the LAPD.

Man Shot to Death During Dispute

Los Angeles:  A 17-year-old juvenile shot and killed a man over a dispute with his mother.

On Thursday, March 22, 2007, at around 6 P.M., Jerome Stallworth, 38,was at the residence located in the 3600 block of 4th Avenue. Stallworth was engaged in an argument with the juvenile’s mother which had being going on for some time.  The juvenile fired two rounds at Stallworth with a shotgun. The juvenile fled from the location.

Los Angeles City Fire Department Paramedics responded and pronounced Stallworth dead at the scene. 

With the help from family members, the juvenile surrendered to police without incident.

Detectives recovered the shotgun from a nearby drainage near the curb where the juvenile discarded the weapon after the shooting.

For more information, please call Southwest Homicide Detectives Jim Yoshida and Rick Gordon at  213-485-2418.  On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).