Los Angeles authorities have launched an intensive search for a possible serial killer who has targeted three individuals experiencing homelessness. The LAPD revealed in a press conference on Friday that all three victims were tragically killed while sleeping alone on a sidewalk or in an alley this week.
The first victim, aged 37, met a fatal end around 3 a.m. on Sunday. Subsequently, a 62-year-old man became the second victim, attacked at approximately 4:55 a.m. on Monday, followed by the third victim, a 52-year-old man, who lost his life around 2:30 a.m. on Wednesday, according to police statements.
The lone suspect, observed in a vehicle at all three crime scenes, reportedly approached each victim on foot, carried out the fatal shootings, and swiftly fled in the car, as detailed by law enforcement.
Authorities are now urging the public to assist in identifying the suspect by reviewing provided images. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has issued a plea to residents, encouraging them to reach out to any of their homeless relatives and inform them about the imminent danger.
During the news conference, Mayor Bass emphasized the urgency of the situation, advising individuals not to sleep alone and to actively seek shelter and services. Recognizing the inherent dangers of living on the streets, she underscored the gravity of the situation, characterizing the perpetrator as preying on the unhoused.
Describing the city’s collective response, Mayor Bass rallied Angelinos to unite against this threat, asserting that the entire city and region are mobilizing to apprehend the individual responsible. She concluded with a stern message to the perpetrator, vowing, “We will find you, we will catch you, and you will be held accountable.”
