Video: Long Beach police seek leads in liquor store killing

The Long Beach Police Department has released surveillance video of a liquor store clerk who was recently killed during a robbery.

Sor Phouma, a 52-year-old Asian man from Long Beach, was shot about 8 p.m. Saturday at P&B Liquor Jr. Market, at 4th Street and Cherry Avenue, according to Sgt. Rico Fernandez. The victim was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

In the video, two male assailants approach the counter as a customer is making a purchase. One of the suspects then pulls out a handgun from his waistband and points it at Phouma.

At that point, police said the male customer tries to leave the store but is stopped by the gunman, who demands his money. After taking his money, the gunman turns to Phouma and shoots him. [The shooting is not shown in the video.]

Authorities said the two men were last seen running east toward Cherry Avenue. The assailants are described as Latinos in their late 20s or early 30s, wearing dark clothing. The weapon used was a chrome revolver.

Detectives are hoping that the male customer who was robbed by the two men will come forward and contact them. Officials believe he may have information that may be useful in the homicide investigation.

Anyone with details about the shooting is asked to contact Det. David Rios or Roger Zottneck at (562) 570-7247. Callers can remain anonymous.

-- Sarah Ardalani