Marty Gregory Roybal was 17 when he was shot and killed on September 14, 2000, while drawing a picture at the Los Angeles River in the Silver Lake area. The killing prompted an extensive investigation by Los Angeles law enforcement into a lethal pattern of violence in the neighborhood.

Investigators focused on Timothy Joseph McGhee, a member of the Toonerville 13 gang, as the primary suspect in Marty’s murder. Reports linked McGhee to multiple killings and to attacks on other civilians; he was eventually apprehended and charged in connection with several murders and other violent crimes. The case highlighted the danger posed when gang-related violence reaches into public spaces where civilians, including teenagers, were present.

Marty’s death remains a stark example of a young life taken in a public place. If anyone knew Marty, saw him at the river that day, or has information about his killing, please come forward to share what you know.