Tomas Regalado III was two-and-a-half years old when he died in East Los Angeles on June 3, 1992. The community held a small funeral: his coffin was draped with flowers, photographs and a crucifix as family and friends gathered to mourn.

Investigators determined Tomas was killed in a gang-related shooting, a case that reflected the severe gang violence affecting parts of East Los Angeles at the time. The investigation involved multiple suspects and witnesses; law enforcement pursued those leads and brought several people to trial. Courtroom testimony described the dangers residents faced, and the proceedings resulted in guilty verdicts and prison sentences for the defendants.

Tomas’s death had a deep impact on the neighborhood and became a focal point for efforts to reduce violence and protect children. If anyone knew Tomas or has information about the incident or its aftermath, please share what is known.