Jose Velasquez, 36

Jose Velasquez, a 36-year-old Latino, was fatally shot Monday, Dec. 31, in the 20700 block of Alburtis Avenue in Lakewood, according to Los Angeles County coroner's records.

The shooting occurred about 11:20 p.m. at a New Year's Eve party at a home, sheriff's deputies said.

"Words were exchanged and an argument ensued when gunfire suddenly erupted,'' according to a Sheriff's Department statement.

Velasquez was struck in the upper body. He was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The five additional victims, a woman and four men in the driveway, suffered minor, non-life-threatening gunshot wounds.

The male gunman fled on foot.

Anyone with information about this attack is encouraged to contact the Sheriff's Department's Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.

-- Garrett Therolf