Long Beach police have released video footage of a suspect believed to be responsible for the murder of 17-year-old Briana Soto. The incident occurred on March 26 as Soto was walking home from work near 11th Street and Lewis Avenue. Police Chief Wally Hebeish stated that Soto had just ended a call with her mother when the suspect, described as a man, approached and shot her in the upper body.
The gunshots were heard by Soto’s mother, who attempted to call back but was answered by a good Samaritan. It remains unclear whether the witness saw the shooter due to language barriers. Soto was found in critical condition by officers and was rushed to the hospital. Tragically, she succumbed to a gunshot wound to the head on March 29, as confirmed by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner.
Authorities are currently investigating the motive behind the shooting and are working to determine if it was a random attack. Surveillance footage captured the suspect walking in the neighborhood approximately ten minutes before the incident, wearing a face mask, a black hooded sweatshirt, dark-colored pants, and dark-colored shoes with white soles. The suspect’s hands were seen in the sweatshirt pocket.
Following the shooting, the suspect was observed running southbound on Lewis Avenue and removing items of clothing. Chief Hebeish urged the public to come forward with any information, emphasizing that someone may recognize the individual in the video or recall someone acting strangely on the night of March 26.
There is currently no evidence to suggest that Soto was targeted or that any belongings were taken from her. Chief Hebeish expressed the devastating impact this crime has had on Soto’s family and vowed to continue the investigation until the person responsible for her death is apprehended.
1 Response
This is such a tragic and heartbreaking incident. My personal goal related to this topic is to spread awareness about the importance of community safety and the need for justice in cases like these. I plan to actively engage in discussions and share information about the suspect in order to help the authorities in their investigation. Additionally, I want to support organizations that work towards preventing such crimes and providing support to the families affected by violence. It is crucial to come together as a community and take a stand against senseless acts of