Paul Stanley Woods, 54, was shot and killed on the evening of December 15, 2020, near 1000 E. 7th St. in Downtown Los Angeles. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner pronounced Woods dead at the scene and authorities classified the death as a homicide.

The LAPD canvassed for witnesses, reviewed surveillance footage and collected forensic evidence. Tips from the public and a witness description led investigators to a person of interest who was taken into custody for questioning. That individual has a prior criminal record and denied involvement; inconsistencies in an alibi and other circumstantial matters were reported while ballistics and DNA testing continued.

Woods family members filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the person of interest. The criminal investigation and the civil case were both active as prosecutors and attorneys pursued their respective actions.

If anyone saw activity around 1000 E. 7th St. on the evening of December 15, 2020, or has information about this shooting, please come forward.