MONTEBELLO — Homicide detectives and family members have renewed their call for justice for a 19-year-old Montebello man shot to death in front of a convenience store in August after he opened the door for his killer.
Investigators Thursday released surveillance images of the suspect, as well as a composite sketch, in hopes of finding the killer of Kenneth Deras, who was leaving a convenience store in the 700 block of West Washington Avenue with a Pepsi in-hand when he was gunned down Aug. 18, according to Los Angeles County Sheriff’s officials.
A motive in the slaying remains unknown, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department spokeswoman Nicole Nishida said.
Deras had just exited the store, holding the door open for the killer, and said, “Hi,” Nishida said.
There was a brief exchange of words, which seemed friendly, she added.
Investigators initially said the suspect may have made a statement regarding gang affiliation.
It appeared Deras tried to run when the gunman began shooting, however he was wounded and ultimately died in the parking lot.
The killer was Latino, 25 to 30 years old, 5 feet 6 inches to 5 feet 9 inches tall, 145 to 165 pounds, Nishida said. He has a mole on his right cheek and a tattoo on his inner right forearm.
He fled the area in a black compact car and fled the area, officials said. There may have been others inside the car as well.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500. Tips can also be submitted anonymously to L.A. Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477.

PHOTOS courtesy of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department