On April 15, 2024, at about 11:09 p.m., deputies from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department found 28-year-old Markus Christopher Michel dead near a creek bed by Coyote Creek in Hawaiian Gardens, California. He had suffered multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene by the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner. The location is described as a remote area near East Carson and Bloomfield streets, with nearby homeless encampments; investigators have not confirmed whether Michel was connected to those encampments.

Deputies reported hearing gunshots when they arrived, but no suspects were located at the scene and no information about suspects or arrests has been released. A GoFundMe titled Remembering Markus was set up to help with funeral expenses and support his family. If anyone has information that could help investigators, contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau.