Murders Involving Persons Experiencing Homelessness
December 2, 2023 - Los Angeles, CA - Los Angeles Police Department officials report that detectives from the Los Angeles Police Department Robbery-Homicide Division are asking for the public’s help in providing any information that will lead to the arrest of the suspect responsible for the murders of persons experiencing homelessness in LAPD’s Central and South Bureau.
The Los Angeles Police Department is investigating three separate murders that occurred between November 26, 2023, and November 29, 2023. In each case, the victims were experiencing homelessness. While some similarities have been identified, detectives are working to determine if these murders are related. A community alert bulletin has been issued to make our unhoused population and our community stakeholders aware of the recent murders.
The suspect in these homicides is described only as male. The suspect was seen in a dark-colored sedan. It is unknown if he was alone or if there were any additional suspects.
“As we always do in the face of a challenge or crisis, our region is mobilizing to respond to this issue. We will work tirelessly to find the individual responsible, arrest them, and hold them accountable. I have met with our partners at the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles, and the Los Angeles Housing Department and we are moving immediately to get the word out to our unhoused neighbors in housing networks. Our message to our unhoused community is clear – try not to be alone tonight. We will do all we can to make shelter and services available. To the many Angelenos who have friends or family who are unhoused, please let them know the danger that exists. We must stay safe. We will work diligently to bring those responsible to justice.” – Mayor Karen Bass
“The Los Angeles Police Department is employing all available resources to bring justice to these murder victims. I am thankful for our City partners who are working with us closely to ensure the safety of this vulnerable population as we pursue the criminal investigation.” – Chief Michel Moore
“I commend the LAPD for creating a dedicated task force to uncover the identity of a potential serial killer preying on the most vulnerable in our community. I’ve assigned our Major Crimes Division, Bureau of Victim Services and our Bureau of Investigation to assist with these efforts. Today, we demonstrate our collective resolve and stand united in our pursuit of justice, unwavering against the darkness that preys on the most defenseless among us.” – District Attorney George Gascón
View video of press conference here.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Los Angeles Police Department’s Robbery-Homicide Division, Homicide Special Section, at (213) 486-6890. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org. Lastly, tipsters may also download the “P3 Tips” mobile application and select the LA Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.
Source & photos: Los Angeles Police Department
