$50,000 reward offered in South L.A. killing of 20-year-old college student

Authorities announced a $50,000 reward Thursday in the killing of a 20-year-old college student who was shot near a South Los Angeles park last year.

About 10:30 p.m. Oct. 24, 2016, Mariana Resendiz was in the area of South Avalon Boulevard and East 41st Street in Historic South-Central when a person walked up and shot her, Lt. Raul Jovel with the LAPD’s Newton Division said at a news conference.

“We’re offering a reward in this case, but more importantly asking for justice and compassion for Mariana and her family,” Jovel said.

Resendiz grew up and lived in the area, and police said she frequented Gilbert Lindsay Park. Investigators say they hope anyone who was with her in the days before the shooting will contact them.

Police released few additional details about the shooting, including any description of a suspect. Police also declined to comment on whether anyone witnessed the killing.

Resendiz was a student at East Los Angeles College who wanted to become a probation officer.  

Her sister, who declined to give her name for fear of retaliation, said that she has experienced a “roller coaster” of emotions since Resendiz was killed.

“She was a good girl,” the sister said.

Anyone with information is asked to call LAPD Newton Division detectives at (323) 846-6556. Those who wish to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.

Contact the Homicide Report. Follow @nicolesantacruz and @latimeshomicide on Twitter.

Photo: Police answer questions at a news conference to announce a $50,000 reward in the killing of Mariana Resendiz. Credit: Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times