Joe Anthony Ruiz, a 32-year-old Latino, was shot and killed Thursday, Aug. 29, in the 8110 block of South Broadway in Florence, according to Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner’s records.
About 1 a.m., Ruiz was working as a clerk in an unauthorized marijuana shop when two people came into the shop and shot him, said Los Angeles Police Det. David Dilkes.
The two suspects fled on foot south on Broadway, Dilkes said.
Ruiz was pronounced dead at the scene at 1:20 a.m., according to coroner's records.
Police identified the suspects as Iaushee Smith, 24, and Tyre Lavell Sherman, 23, both black men.
Smith has been charged with one count of murder with a gang allegation and an allegation that he committed a murder during an attempted robbery, according to the Los Angeles County district attorney’s office.
Smith also faces an allegation that he used a handgun as a deadly weapon.
Both Smith and Sherman face one count of attempted second-degree robbery with a gang allegation.
Smith and Sherman have pleaded not guilty and are due back in court Oct. 7, according to court records.
Anyone with information is asked to call detectives at (323) 786-5113. Those who wish to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.