An unknown U-Haul driver fatally shot a 28-year-old man in East Compton before fleeing the scene and leaving behind the truck, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said Friday.
Deputies responded to a “gunshot victim” call in the 15600 block of South Washington Avenue around 10:36 p.m. Thursday when they discovered the body of a 28-year-old man suffering from multiple gunshot wounds lying in the street, a department news release stated.
The deadly incident occurred after the victim witnessed a U-Haul driver back into his vehicle, witnesses told investigators.
The victim then allegedly confronted the motorist, who proceeded to drive away.
The victim then gave chase, and after a “short distance” the U-Haul driver exited the truck and shot the victim, according to witnesses.
The driver was then accused of fleeing the area on foot, leaving behind the truck.
The gunman and weapon remained missing as of Friday morning.
Anyone with information was asked to contact the Sheriff’s Department’s Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500. Anonymous tippers could call “Crime Stoppers” at 800-222-TIPS (8477), text the letters TIPLA plus the tip to CRIMES (274637), or visit http://lacrimestoppers.org.