James Mcelroy, 21

James McElroy, a 21-year-old white man, was fatally shot Tuesday, Feb. 7, in the 38000 block of 20th Street East in Palmdale, according to Los Angeles County coroner's records.

Authorities received a call of shots fired about 8:50 p.m. and found McElroy in a home with a gunshot wound, according to a Sheriff's Department news release. A gun was recovered at the scene, officials said.

Paramedics were called and the victim was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Coroner's records show he suffered a gunshot wound to the face.

During the investigation officials took Nicolas Harper, who also lived at the residence, into custody. A day after the shooting Harper, a 23-year-old Latino, was arrested on suspicion of manslaughter and held on an outstanding warrant, said Det. Dan McElderry, who is handling the case.

McElderry said Harper remained in jail while the district attorney's office analyzed the case and waited for McElroy's autopsy results.

According to jail records, Harper was released from jail Feb. 14 and was then re-interviewed by investigators. Subsequently, he was rearrested and charged with murder, McElderry said.

Harper is being held in lieu of $2-million bail at Men's Central Jail in downtown. His next court appearance is scheduled for March 1 in Antelope Valley.

Citing the ongoing investigation, McElderry declined to provide a motive for the shooting.

Anyone with additional information about the death of James McElroy is asked to contact Det. McElderry at (323) 890-5500. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.

-- Los Angeles Times