A homicide investigation began in Los Angeles after the body of 31-year-old Kauwela Salley was found on a city sidewalk on December 9, 2025. Salley, originally from Oahu, Hawaii, had a fatal gunshot wound to the chest; the Los Angeles County Coroner’s office confirmed he died that day and next of kin were notified.

Family members say Salley had struggled with mental illness for most of his life and had lived in a group home in Oahu before running away and being missing for several months. He ultimately ended up in Los Angeles, where detectives recovered evidence that the shooting may have been captured on surveillance video. Family statements say a suspect was identified and taken into custody, though law enforcement has not publicly released the suspect’s identity and formal charges are pending.

If anyone knew Kauwela’s movements in Los Angeles or has information about the shooting, please share what is known with investigators.