Full Notification

Security Guard Fatally Shot at Strip Mall

Panorama City.  Detectives are investigating the fatal shooting of a 48-year-old security guard at a Panorama City strip mall on Roscoe Boulevard last night, April 11.  According to local business employees, the guard had patrolled the mall for at least 8 years.

And employee from the liquor store heard a gunshot around 9:50 PM and called 9-1-1.  When he went outside to investigate, the clerk found the uniformed security guard lying in a walkway between two stores, leading to the rear alley.  He appeared dead.  Paramedics soon verified he had died at the scene.

Detectives interviewed another witness who saw the security guard arguing with a Hispanic man, wearing a brown hoody, just minutes before the shooting.

“The guard was a good man, trying to make a living in an honorable way,” said Capt. Chamberlain, commanding officer of the Mission Area Police Station.  “He was trying to keep the area free of problems so customers could patronize the markets.  No doubt he has a family.  These shootings are very sad and unnecessary.”

Police brought in a search dog to look for any evidence along the presumed path of escape for the shooter, through the rear alley.  Detectives canvassed the stores for information about the security guard and any persons with whom he might have had contact.

“The motive for the shooting is not clear,” said Capt. Chamberlain.  “So we’re asking the public to come forward in this case with any information related to the security guard or any suspects.

The strip mall is located at 15025 Roscoe Boulevard.

Anyone with information on this crime is urged to call Detective Ryan Verna, Mission Homicide Unit, at (818) 838-9976.  Anonymous tips can be called into Crimestoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477), or by texting 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.”  Online tips may be placed at www.LAPDOnline.org, click on “webtips” and follow the prompts.

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