Fifteen-year-old Samantha Bustos Vital was reported missing after going out with friends on the evening of March 22, 2018, and not returning home. Her body was found face-down between bushes and a fence near the Dominguez Hills Industrial Park in Compton on March 25. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner ruled the cause of death a gunshot wound to the head.

Investigators arrested two 15-year-old boys in connection with Samantha’s death. One was detained March 30 after leads placed him at the scene and involved in events after the homicide; he was booked on suspicion of murder. A second juvenile was taken into custody April 2 after attempting to flee from officers; during questioning he implicated himself in the shooting and was also booked for murder. Both were charged as the inquiry continued.

Samantha was a student at New Designs Charter School in Willowbrook. The family’s community received support, including an online fundraiser that surpassed its goal to help cover burial expenses. If anyone knew Samantha, her plans on March 22, or saw activity near Dominguez Hills Industrial Park that weekend, please come forward with information.