Homicide investigators asked for the public’s help Thursday in locating those responsible for the fatal shooting of a man trying to stop a group of juveniles from stealing his car in the South Los Angeles area.
Juan Luis Marquez, 41, was shot around 9:20 p.m. on Aug. 16, after he and his son heard their vehicle alarm in the alley behind their home near the 8000 block of Hooper Avenue, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
When they went outside, they encountered three male juveniles around the car attempting to steal it, authorities said. A fourth suspect opened fire from 81st Street.
Marquez, armed with his legally owned firearm, returned fire, sheriff’s officials said. He was shot and pronounced dead at the scene, while his son was shot in the leg and survived.
All four suspects fled the scene in what investigators believe to be a red or burgundy Kia K5, last seen traveling westbound on 81st Street. Authorities believe the Kia may have sustained damage from gunfire, possibly leading to recent repairs. It is also possible one of the suspects suffered a gunshot wound or grazing injury.
Detectives released video footage of the suspect vehicle on Thursday, and it remains available at facebook.com/LosAngelesCountySheriffsDepartment/.
Marquez was described as a hardworking, devoted husband and father of four.
The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has authorized a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the death.
Anyone with information regarding the case was urged to contact the sheriff’s Information Bureau at 323-890-5500. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or visit lacrimestoppers.org.