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Three homeless men have been murdered in downtown and South Los Angeles on November 26, 27, and 29, prompting the LAPD to appeal for public help in identifying the killer. The victims were alone during the attacks, which happened in the early morning hours and which appear to be targeted. In 2023, homeless people accounted for 15% of the city’s murder victims, up from 24% of 381 murders in 2022.
Seeking Public Help in Identifying Killer of Three Homeless Men
Authorities are seeking public assistance to identify the killer responsible for the murder of three homeless men last week. The murders happened between Nov. 26 and Nov. 29 in downtown and South Los Angeles, according to LAPD Chief Michel Moore.
Though the motive remains unknown, the similarities between the attacks and the victims is evident. “The three individuals, sleeping alone, unsheltered, were, we believe, targeted,” Moore stated.
Details about the Murderer and Getaway Car
In a Friday news conference, police released a security video image potentially showing the killer and a getaway car. The detectives did not reveal from which crime scene the images were procured. The individual sought in the killings remains unidentified, and the car was vaguely described as a dark-colored sedan.
Moore refrained from labeling the attacker a serial killer. There is no sign of disputes, altercations, or any evidence suggesting these shootings were spontaneous or related to other crimes, like robberies.
Victims’ Situation and Homelessness Factor
The victims were alone on the street when murdered, with two of them sleeping and the third attempting to charge his phone. Detectives are investigating other recent cases of street violence for similarities, although currently, only these three shootings seem interconnected.
Homelessness has been a significant factor in many recent murders, with data showing 24% of the 381 murder victims in Los Angeles in 2022 were homeless. In 2023, the figure is at 15% of the city’s murder victims.
Call for Public Vigilance and Assistance
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, during Friday’s conference, said, “This news is devastating. This is a killer who is preying on the unhoused.” Bass urged public members who know someone homeless to reach out and ensure their safety.
Homeless outreach workers are being dispatched to encampments, urging individuals to find a safer shelter until the killer is apprehended. “I appeal to all Angelenos, anybody that has a connection with someone unhoused, to contact them and tell them not to be alone,” Bass advised.
For any tips or information about the case, LAPD has established a special hotline: 213-486-6890.
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