Willians Lemus Ayala, 12, was found dead by the roadside near Sand Canyon Road and Placerita Canyon Road in Santa Clarita on November 6, 2023. Deputies responding to a 6:30 a.m. call initially misidentified the child as an adult male; the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner later confirmed his identity and ruled the cause of death a gunshot wound to the head, classifying it as a homicide.

Investigators first considered possible gang involvement but later reassessed that theory. Authorities located another juvenile who had been with Ayala; according to statements, the minors were handling a firearm when it unintentionally discharged, fatally wounding Ayala. Lieutenant Arturo Spencer said the shooting appeared to be accidental, describing the youths as messing around with the gun. No arrests have been announced. The case will be presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for review to determine whether charges are warranted.

Does anyone who was in the Sand Canyon or Placerita Canyon area that morning have information that could help investigators?