A story for every victim

Edwin Cruz, 17

Edwin Cruz, a 17-year-old white teenager, was shot and killed Friday, Aug. 17, in the 2800 block of Leeward Avenue in Westlake, according to Los Angeles County coroner's records.

Police received a radio call regarding shots fired about 9 p.m., according to an LAPD news release. When authorities arrived, they discovered Cruz and another 17-year-old wounded on the front porch of an apartment complex.

The two victims were taken by paramedics to L.A. County/USC Medical Center, where Cruz was pronounced dead upon arrival.

The second victim was shot in the leg and was expected to recover, officials said.

During the investigation, detectives learned that three unknown men walked up to Cruz and the other victim and shot them. The motive for the shooting appears to be gang-related, police said.

Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to contact LAPD West Bureau homicide detectives at (213) 382-9470. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.

-- Los Angeles Times

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