A story for every victim

Nicole Zuniga, 18

Nicole Zuniga, an 18-year-old Latina, was shot and killed Monday, June 11, in the 3200 block of Verdugo Road in Glassell Park, according to Los Angeles County coroner's records.

Zuniga was gunned down about 9 p.m. , the Los Angeles Police Department said. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Coroner's records show she suffered a gunshot wound to the head.

Michael Cortes, a 21-year-old Latino, was also wounded in the shooting and taken to a local hospital. He was listed in critical condition but died a day after the incident. According to coroner's records, he also 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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