Samuel Mendez Ramirez was 17 when he was fatally shot on July 12, 2002, in the Wilmington neighborhood of Los Angeles. The Los Angeles County coroner ruled his death a homicide after he was shot multiple times and died at the scene. Witnesses reported hearing several gunshots and seeing a suspect flee, but no arrest followed immediately and the assailant’s identity remained unknown.

The neighborhood where the shooting occurred has struggled with gang-related activity, though it is not established whether that played a role in Samuel’s killing. Investigators have pursued leads over the years, while the family has worked with local authorities, participated in community outreach, and hired private investigators. Despite these efforts, the case remains unsolved and key questions about motive and the suspect’s identity are unresolved.

If anyone knew Samuel, was in Wilmington on July 12, 2002, or saw something that could help, please share information with investigators.