LAKEWOOD, Calif. (Nov. 24) – A vigil to honor a 17-year-old boy who was fatally shot outside a Lakewood pizzeria turned violent when gunfire erupted, injuring two people, authorities said Thursday.
The vigil was held Thursday morning near the site of Wednesday night’s fatal shooting, outside Goody’s Pizza & Chicken in the 20000 block of Pioneer Boulevard, close to Del Amo Boulevard and Artesia High School.
Initial Shooting
The 17-year-old, whose family described him as a high school student with a bright future, was killed in what authorities are calling a targeted attack. Deputies from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department responded to reports of gunfire at the restaurant at approximately 5:50 p.m. Wednesday. The teen was found with a gunshot wound to the head and was pronounced dead at the scene.
As mourners gathered to pay their respects the following morning, shots rang out again. Two individuals were struck by gunfire, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. Their conditions were not immediately disclosed, and no information has been released regarding the identities of the victims or a potential motive.
Authorities have not confirmed if the two shootings are connected.
Appeal for Information
Investigators are actively searching for suspects in both incidents. Authorities are urging witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.
Tips can be provided to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department at 323-890-5500. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or online at lacrimestoppers.org.
The incidents have left the Lakewood community shaken, with residents expressing frustration and fear over the escalating violence.
“These were kids just trying to grieve the loss of a friend,” one resident said. “Now we’re left wondering if this violence will ever end.”
Law enforcement officials are increasing patrols in the area to ensure public safety as the investigations continue. Further updates are expected as detectives work to identify those responsible for the shootings.
