On November 30, 2023, at about 2:30 a.m., Los Angeles Police officers found 41-year-old Obet Garcia-Ortega suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest near West Gage Avenue and Hoover Street in the Harvard Park area of South Los Angeles. First responders attempted life-saving measures, but Garcia-Ortega, a Hispanic man identified as homeless, was pronounced dead at the scene. The Los Angeles County Coroner ruled the cause of death a homicide from the gunshot wound.

The LAPD’s South Bureau Homicide Division opened an investigation. By December 1, 2023, detectives had not identified suspects or a motive and asked the public to call (323) 786-5100 with information. The case underscores the particular vulnerabilities faced by people experiencing homelessness in the city.

If anyone saw activity near West Gage Avenue and Hoover Street that night or has information about Obet Garcia-Ortega’s death, please contact the LAPD tip line above.