Reginald Martin Thompson, a 33-year-old Black male, tragically lost his life on January 11, 2022, in Athens, California. According to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner's records, Thompson was shot near 11415 S. Vermont Ave. in Athens. The incident occurred in the evening while Thompson was conversing with friends in the parking lot of a shopping center located at the southwest corner of Imperial Highway and Vermont Avenue. As they were talking, four suspects arrived in a dark-colored sedan, exited the vehicle, and opened fire on Thompson and his friends. Thompson was struck by the gunfire and later succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD) has been actively investigating the case. In an effort to gather more information and bring those responsible to justice, the LASD held a press conference on May 3, 2022, announcing a $20,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspects involved in Thompson's murder. This reward was sponsored by Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, Second District. During the press conference, Thompson's family members, including his mother Caren Stephens, made heartfelt pleas for anyone with information to come forward. They described Thompson as a loving father, brother, and friend who did not deserve to be tragically taken from them.
Despite the ongoing investigation, no arrests have been made, and the identities of the suspects remain unknown. The LASD Homicide Bureau continues to seek the public's help in solving the case, urging anyone with information to contact them or provide tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers. The community's cooperation is crucial in achieving justice for Reginald Martin Thompson and his grieving family.
