David Akiva Saltzman, 32, of Los Angeles was murdered on October 3, 2014. He was found inside a torched vehicle in the West Adams neighborhood with a gunshot wound; investigators report he appeared to have been shot through the car window before the vehicle was set on fire. The killing was described as execution-style and drew significant media attention.

Saltzman had pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute marijuana and was awaiting sentencing in Brooklyn Federal Court at the time of his death. He was reportedly involved in a large-scale marijuana trafficking operation and had a role delivering cash for a Staten Island–based ring led by Jonathan Braun. Saltzman also studied at the Circle in the Square Theater School and had pursued acting.

No arrests had been announced and the Los Angeles County coroner was still investigating the final cause of death; authorities had not publicly identified suspects. If anyone knew Saltzman, his activities, or saw anything in West Adams on October 3, 2014, law enforcement would welcome tips.