Authorities are searching for four juvenile suspects who murdered a father and injured his son while attempting to steal their car in South Los Angeles.
On Aug. 16, Juan Luis Marquez, 41, and his son went outside after hearing their car alarm ringing while it was parked in an alleyway on the 8000 block of South Hooper Avenue.
When they arrived, they spotted three juveniles attempting to steal their car, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
While confronting the suspects, a fourth juvenile standing at the alleyway entrance opened fire, striking both Marquez and his son. Marquez returned gunfire, but the suspects escaped in a getaway car.
Marquez, who was shot in the upper torso, was pronounced dead at the scene. His son was shot in the leg and was taken to the hospital for treatment.
The suspects, who were described as Black juveniles, fled the scene in a red or burgundy Kia K5 sedan. Detectives believe the car has gunshot damage and that one of the suspects may have been wounded.
Family members said that a month earlier, thieves had attempted to steal their car while it was parked in the same alleyway near their home.
Loved ones describe Marquez as a loving husband and father of four children.
“His murder has devastated his family,” said LASD Lt. Steve De Jong at a Sept. 18 press conference. “We are hoping someone has the courage to come forward and provide us with valuable information to solve this senseless murder and bring justice to Juan Luis’ family.”
LASD officials are offering a $10,000 reward to anyone with information leading to the suspects’ identification and conviction.
“He was the sole breadwinner and provider for his three daughters, son, and wife,” his family wrote on a GoFundMe page to help with funeral costs. “He was a kind-hearted person that was always willing to help anyone and believed in peace and harmony. He never had any issues with anyone. He was full of love and loved by many.”
Investigators are urging anyone with information to call LASD’s Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500. Anonymous tips can be provided to L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at lacrimestoppers.org.
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