Williams Patrick Simms, a 43-year-old black man, was shot and killed Saturday, Oct. 24, in the 600 block of East 83rd Street in Florence, according to Los Angeles County coroner’s records.
About 10 p.m., Simms was at a party in front of a home when two Latinos walked up, said “Where you from,” and at least one of the men began shooting, said LAPD Det. Chris Barling.
Police said that the investigation is in preliminary stages but said that the crime does not appear to be racially motivated, but gang motivated.
The assailants ran east toward Stanford Avenue, Barling said. Simms was pronounced dead at the scene at 10:14 p.m., according to coroner’s records.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Criminal Gang Homicide Division at (323)786-5113. Those who wish to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.