Introduction to the Incident
Triple Homicide in Lancaster
Authorities located the 32-year-old man sought in connection with the killings of three homeless people who were found shot in a vacant lot in an unincorporated desert area south of Lancaster.
Deputies from the Lancaster Sheriff’s Station responded around 4:48 p.m. Sunday at 215th Street East and East Palmdale Boulevard in Lake Los Angeles regarding a report of gunshots, officials said.
Details of the Shooting
Response and Discovery
The call was upgraded to multiple gunshot victims at the location and when deputies arrived at the scene, they found the three victims seated in two vehicles suffering from multiple gunshot wounds, said sheriff’s homicide detective Lt. Steven De Jong.
All three victims were pronounced dead at the scene by Los Angeles County Fire Department personnel.
Investigation and Person of Interest
Identifying the Person of Interest
Investigators on Tuesday identified Axel Trevino as a person of interest in the case, although no details were provided about his possible connection to the victims.
He was located later that day and taken into custody.
The dead were identified by the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner as Juan Arteaga Diaz, 44; Nazario Ramirez, 54; and Beverly Cassese, 65.
Scene and Aftermath
Scene Description and Call for Information
News video from the scene of the killings showed a white sedan with bullet holes in the driver’s side window and a red SUV in front of a white trailer. All the vehicles were in a vacant lot strewn with tires near what appeared to be a storage lot for commercial trailers.
Anyone with information regarding the shootings was asked to call the Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500. Callers who wish to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or visit lacrimestoppers.org.
Conclusion
The tragic incident highlights the ongoing issues of violence and vulnerability faced by homeless populations. The swift identification and apprehension of the person of interest bring some relief, but the community remains in shock. As the investigation unfolds, it is crucial for the public to come forward with any information that might aid in understanding the circumstances surrounding this horrific crime.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What happened in Lancaster?
A: Three homeless individuals were found shot to death in a vacant lot near Lancaster.
Q: Who are the victims?
A: The victims have been identified as Juan Arteaga Diaz, 44; Nazario Ramirez, 54; and Beverly Cassese, 65.
Q: Is a suspect in custody?
A: Yes, Axel Trevino, a 32-year-old man, has been identified as a person of interest and is now in custody.
Q: How can I provide information about the incident?
A: You can call the Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500 or Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477.
