James Gregory Medrano, a 26-year-old from Norwalk, California, was shot and killed at Norwalk Skate Park on the evening of November 19, 2016. Medrano was well known at the park and intervened when he saw a man trying to steal another skater’s skateboard. During the confrontation the suspect produced a handgun and shot Medrano multiple times; Medrano was pronounced dead at the scene shortly after 8 p.m.

Witnesses described the shooter as a man in his 30s, possibly mixed race including white, black and/or Pacific Islander, who was last seen running through the park toward Sproul Street. Although the park was crowded, many people fled and several were reluctant to come forward, and investigators have said the case has faced challenges due to a lack of cooperation. No arrests have been announced and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Homicide Bureau continues to seek information.

Medrano was remembered as a protective, big‑brother figure to younger skaters, and his death deeply affected the skate park community. If anyone who was at the park that night or who knows more about the suspect can help, please contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Homicide Bureau.