Four fatal shootings across Southeast Los Angeles County in the early hours of February 11, 2024 included the killing of 14-year-old Javier Pedraza Jr. Deputies found Javier and a 13-year-old boy suffering from gunshot wounds shortly after midnight in the 5000 block of Live Oak Street near the Ellen Ochoa Learning Center in Cudahy. Javier was pronounced dead at the scene; the 13-year-old was taken to hospital in stable condition.

Investigators linked a red Honda Pilot SUV to each crime scene on surveillance footage and arrested 42-year-old Gary Jonathan Garcia Jr. and 20-year-old Timberland Wayne McKneely, both charged with multiple counts of murder and attempted murder. A third suspect who is a juvenile was also arrested. Authorities described the incidents as appearing to be a random murder spree, and said the motive remains unclear.

Family, friends, and the Cudahy community held a vigil near the school, expressing shock, grief, and anger over the senseless violence. If anyone has information about Javier, the shootings, or the red Honda Pilot seen that night, please come forward.