Carlos Ledesma-Diaz, an 18-year-old from Escondido, was shot and killed on January 31, 2021, at the Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego in the Core-Columbia neighborhood. San Diego police found him mortally wounded in a guest room after reports of gunfire shortly before 9:30 p.m.; he died after being taken to a hospital.

Investigators say Ledesma-Diaz had been in the room with several people when three males walked away and one turned back and opened fire toward the room. As he exited the room, Ledesma-Diaz was shot by one of the suspects, who then fled. Police described the attack as targeted, though the motive has not been disclosed.

A 16-year-old boy was arrested on February 9, 2021, on suspicion of murder; the juvenile’s identity has not been released. Anyone who witnessed the shooting or has information that could assist the ongoing investigation is asked to come forward.