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Sebastian Lazaro Avila, 26

Sebastian Avila, a 26-year-old Latino, was shot and killed Saturday, Sept. 18, in the 6900 block of Adamson Avenue in Bell Gardens, according to Los Angeles County coroner's records.

A fight broke out about 2 a.m. during a backyard party attended by about 20 people, authorities said. A number of people were apparently involved.

“Several shots were then fired from what appears to have been multiple weapons,” said Sheriff’s Lt. Pat Nelson.

Avila and Ricardo Rojas, a 21-year-old Latino, were both hit by gunfire and pronounced dead at the scene.

Noe Ramirez, a 20-year-old Latino, was arrested immediately after the fight. He has been charged with murder in connection with the shooting deaths.

A 27-year-old Bell Gardens woman was shot in a limb during the melee, authorities said, and is recovering. An 18-year-old man was found badly beaten. He remains hospitalized with life-threatening injuries, authorities said.

Ramirez is currently being held at the Men's Central jail in downtown in lieu of $3.5-million bail. His next court appearance is scheduled for Oct. 27 at the Downey Municipal Court.

The L.A. County Sheriff’s Department, which is assisting the Bell Gardens Police Department, said the investigation is continuing. Detectives ask anyone with information to contact the homicide bureau at (323) 890-5500.

-- Kenneth R. Weiss and Sarah Ardalani

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