Eric Ruffins, 28, was fatally shot on January 19, 2024, at about 4:50 p.m. in the 15600 block of Atlantic Avenue, just north of Alondra Boulevard, in an unincorporated area near Compton. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner‑Coroner determined the cause of death was a gunshot wound to the back and ruled the manner of death homicide. Initially investigators did not release information about suspects or a motive, and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department asked anyone with information to contact their Homicide Bureau or Crime Stoppers.

Subsequent investigation led to the arrest of two men in connection with Ruffins’ killing. One arrest was of 22‑year‑old Denmonne Lee, who had a prior juvenile case stemming from a 2018 robbery that left former Marine John Ruh dead. Lee was prosecuted as a juvenile under Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón’s policies, served in a juvenile facility, and was released in June 2023; he was later arrested and charged as an accomplice in Ruffins’ murder. The second arrested suspect was 23‑year‑old Dewayne Cathey. The arrests have prompted public debate over juvenile prosecution policies and questions about rehabilitation versus public safety.

Anyone who knew Eric Ruffins or has information about the shooting is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau or Crime Stoppers.