Death – Obituary – Accident and Crime News : Authorities in Los Angeles are on the hunt for a serial killer who has targeted and fatally shot three homeless men as they slept. LAPD Chief Michel Moore addressed the public during an emergency press conference, urging them to come forward with any information that could lead to the capture of the individual responsible for these heinous crimes. The murders occurred within a span of just four days.
The first victim, identified as 37-year-old Jose Bolanos, was shot in the Westmont neighborhood while sleeping on a couch in a rear alley. The second victim, 62-year-old Mark Diggs, was killed the following day in downtown Los Angeles as he leaned against a wall, waiting for his phone to charge. The most recent killing took place in Lincoln Heights, where a 52-year-old Hispanic man was shot while sleeping on a sidewalk. His identity has not been released pending notification of his family.
Chief Moore highlighted the similarities in the way the crimes were carried out, leading investigators to believe that they are linked. All three murders occurred before 5am, and the victims were found sleeping on sidewalks or in alleyways. The perpetrator appears to be targeting victims who are alone, rather than homeless encampments.
Law enforcement officials have released screengrabs from surveillance footage showing the alleged serial killer and their vehicle. The suspect is seen wearing a light-colored hoodie and dark pants. However, the exact model of the car has not been disclosed by Chief Moore. Additional video footage leading up to the third homicide will not be released at this time.
To protect the homeless population, the city has established temporary winter shelters, and patrols have been increased in areas where the homeless tend to sleep. Mayor Karen Bass urged the public to spread the word about the investigation and encouraged the homeless to seek shelter and stay together for safety.
Chief Moore assured the public that the investigation is being taken seriously, with homicide detectives and a forensic team diligently working on the case. He has also been in contact with law enforcement departments in neighboring cities, although he believes that the killer has not struck outside of Los Angeles.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the killings to contact the Homicide Special Section at (213) 486-6890. The community’s help is crucial in bringing justice to the victims and preventing further tragedy.