Long Beach police Wednesday sought the public’s help to solve the killing of a Valero gas station employee who authorities say was shot by a man he apparently confronted in the parking lot of the business.
Officers went to the 6900 block of Atlantic Avenue at about 10:05 p.m. Tuesday on a report of a person suffering from gunshot wounds to his upper body, according to the Long Beach Police Department.
“Upon arrival, officers located an unresponsive male adult victim in the parking lot of a local business, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds,” police said in a statement.
“Officers rendered medical aid until being relieved at the scene by Long Beach Fire Department personnel,” police said. “The victim was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased.”
Authorities withheld the man’s name, pending notification of his relatives.
“Through their preliminary investigation, detectives determined the victim confronted the suspect in the parking lot,” police said. “During the confrontation, the suspect shot the victim and fled the scene in a vehicle prior to officers’ arrival.”
No description was released of the suspect or his vehicle. Police said a motive for the shooting was not known.
A witness told ABC7 that he heard at least five gunshots at the gas station. Police were seen searching a Nissan sedan for possible evidence outside the business.
Anyone with information on the case was urged to call Detectives Michael Hubbard or Jesus Espinoza at 562-570-7244. Tipsters may also call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS, or use the website www.lacrimestoppers.org.