Barry Gene Evans was a 17-year-old Black youth who died on February 10, 1976, in Los Angeles after an encounter with the Los Angeles Police Department. Officers Lindquist and Rumple questioned Evans at an apartment complex about a reported burglary; the encounter escalated and the officers fatally shot him. The LAPD’s official statement said the officers shot Evans because he posed a threat, but that account drew public skepticism and outrage.

The People, United of Pacoima for Justice (PUPJ) demanded accountability and transparency, writing to the Police Commission and later, on April 20, 1977, sending a letter to Los Angeles District Attorney John Van de Kamp criticizing the DA’s office for failing to conduct a proper investigation. The community framed Evans’ death within broader concerns about police brutality and racial discrimination, and the case increased scrutiny of LAPD practices.

Key questions remain about the investigative steps taken and whether those concerns were addressed to the community’s satisfaction. Did anyone in Pacoima witness the shooting or have documents related to the internal review?