On June 21, 2008 at 11:45 pm the Montebello Police Department received numerous calls of shots fired in the 100 block of East Madison Ave. The incident took place at a residence that was hosting a graduation party.
During the party several individuals were involved in an argument that resulted in gun shots. One group was invited guests and the other was not. The preliminary investigation reveals that this crime appears to be gang related, however it is important to note that neither of the victims were involved in the confrontation nor members of the groups that were at odds.
Juan Garcia 44 years old from Riverside County and Albert Garcia 12 years old also from Riverside County (father and son), succumbed to injuries that they received as a result of being shot. Both received gunshots to their upper torsos. A male adult was treated at the scene for a gunshot wound in the lower torso; a female adult was taken to Monterey Park Hospital for a gunshot wound to her arm. The names of the adult victims are being withheld at this time.
The preliminary suspect information is 2 to 3 male Hispanics, wearing light colored shirts and dark colored pants. They were said to be between 15 and 20 years of age. After the shots were fired, the suspect (s) fled on foot southbound on Poplar Avenue and out of sight. Further information to follow when it becomes available.
Montebello Police Detectives have worked this case around the clock and have interviewed many witnesses and are actively pursuing leads. Montebello Police Chief Daniel Weast has met with the City Administrator and Members of the City Council, all of whom have pledged all available resources to identify, locate and apprehend the individuals responsible for this tragic incident.
Montebello Police Crimes Against Persons Detectives are investigating this case. Anyone with information regarding this incident can contact Detective Ray Sulcer at (323) 887-1253 or Detective Kelly Gordon at (323) 887-1256