Trial Underway for Man Accused of Killing 2 Over Gang Graffiti in Northridge
The trial of Jamal Jackson, 26, began on March 7, with the Los Angeles County Deputy District Attorney, Nicholas Kang, presenting the prosecution’s opening statement. Jackson is accused of killing two people and attempting to kill two others after his gang graffiti was painted over in Northridge.
Graffiti and the Shooting
On April 15, 2023, Jackson left a gang graffiti tag outside an ice cream shop at 19105 Parthenia Street, an area claimed by a rival gang. He later returned to the area around 12:30 p.m. and shot at a group of people, including Juan Lopez-Suarez, 39, and Benjamin Marin, 69, who were hired to paint over the graffiti. Lopez-Suarez died later that day at a hospital, while Marin died months later. At least two others were injured.
Prosecution’s Case
Kang presented evidence, including surveillance videos and photographs of the bodies of the two men who were killed. He highlighted how Jackson took time to walk over to the group before opening fire and how he continued shooting while taking steps back. Kang also showed a note written by Jackson, saying "I just made the news. Can’t really say what I did."
Defense’s Case
Jackson’s defense lawyer, Ilya Alekseyeff, argued that his client did not intend to kill the men he shot. Alekseyeff claimed that Jackson mistook the people he shot for rival gang members and that his actions were a result of a prior incident where he was injured in a shootout eight months before the April 2023 shooting.
Witness Testimony
Victor Gomez, one of the men hired to paint the wall, testified that he grew up locally and knew the area as a gang area. He described the shooting, saying it was like a movie, and saw Lopez-Suarez fall to the ground. Francisco Yacuta Leon, another witness, testified that he was hanging out with friends when he heard someone warn him about Jackson approaching the group. He saw Jackson pointing a gun at them and recalled that a bullet entered his abdomen and exited the top of his left shoulder.
Trial Resumes
The trial is expected to resume next week, with the jury still to hear more evidence and testimony.
Conclusion
The trial of Jamal Jackson has begun, with the prosecution presenting evidence of his alleged crimes. The defense has countered with claims that Jackson did not intend to kill the men he shot. The case is a tragic reminder of the devastating consequences of gang violence and the importance of community efforts to reduce gang activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is accused of killing two people and attempting to kill two others?
- Jamal Jackson, 26, of Panorama City
- What was the motive for the shooting?
- Jackson’s gang graffiti was painted over by the victims, which he perceived as a sign of disrespect
- What is the outcome of the trial so far?
- The prosecution has presented its case, and the defense has countered with claims of mistaken identity and prior injury.
