A story for every victim

Michael Cortes, 21

Michael Cortes, a 21-year-old Latino, died Tuesday, June 12, a day after he was shot in the 3200 block of Verdugo Road in Glassell Park, according to Los Angeles County coroner's records.

Cortes and Nicole Zuniga, an 18-year-old Latina, were gunned down about 9 p.m. Monday, the Los Angeles Police Department said.

Zuniga was pronounced dead at the scene. Coroner's records show she suffered a gunshot wound to the head.

Cortes was also wounded and taken to a local hospital. He was listed in critical condition but died the next day. According to coroner's records, he died from a gunshot wound to the head.

Detectives believe the two victims were friends but had not established a motive for the attack.

Since January 2007, at least 39 homicides have been reported within 2 miles of the scene, according to The Times Homicide Report database.

Anyone with information about the killings is asked to call Det. Martin or Carrillo at (323) 344-5744. Tipsters wishing to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.

-- Robert J. Lopez

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