Richard Allen Jefferson Sr., a 65-year-old Compton resident, was fatally shot on September 19, 2018 while standing on a sidewalk in the 600 block of West Peach Street. He had driven to the P&G Market, parked nearby, entered the store, then crossed Paulsen Street and began speaking with a man on the sidewalk when a dark-colored sedan drove past and someone inside opened fire. Jefferson was struck multiple times, taken to a local hospital, and pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Investigators say Jefferson was an innocent bystander and that the shooters likely mistook him and the men he was talking with for rival gang members; neither Jefferson nor the others had gang affiliations. No arrests have been made, a $20,000 reward is being offered, and some case details including autopsy results have been under a security hold. The Sheriff’s Department continues to seek tips.

If anyone was near West Peach Street and Paulsen Street on September 19, 2018 or has information that could help identify the vehicle or occupants, please come forward.