$75,000 reward offered in Hyde Park shooting

Police are looking for more information about a gunman who walked up to a 21-year-old and his friend in Hyde Park, asked “Where you from?” and opened fire.

On Tuesday, investigators from the Los Angeles Police Department announced a $75,000 reward for information leading to the conviction of the person involved in killing Jose Andres Escobar.

On Jan. 10 about 7 a.m., Escobar left his home. The new father was walking along West 59th Street with a friend collecting aluminum cans when the gunman approached and began shooting at the two, police said.

Investigators released video footage showing a man walking along the street in hopes that the public can help identify the gunman.

Police said the gunman is Latino, has a shaved head, is about 5 feet 10 to 6 feet tall. He is believed to be between 30 and 35. It’s unclear whether the gunman knew Escobar and the other man.

“We don’t solve our cases without the community’s help,” Det. Chris Barling told reporters at the 77th Street police station.

Lucero Urtado, Escobar’s mother, was overcome with emotion. When she was asked what she wanted, she told reporters she wanted to know the truth. Laisa Ponce, Escobar’s sister, said her brother was well-liked and friendly.

Ponce, 26, said her brother came into her bedroom that morning and told her he was leaving. His last words to her were that he loved her.

“He had a big heart,” she said.

Contact the Homicide Report. And follow @latimeshomicide on Twitter. Anyone with information can call the Criminal Gang Homicide Division at (323) 787-5113. Those who wish to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477. 

Photo: Escobar's mother, Lucero Urtado, 45, left, and sisters Laisa Ponce, 26, and Bryana Escobar, 11, at Tuesday's news conference. Credit: Rick Loomis / Los Angeles Times