Kioka Shay Colbert, a 26-year-old woman, was tragically shot and killed on December 28, 2018, in the Florence-Firestone area of Los Angeles. The incident occurred around 10:30 p.m. on the 1100 block of East 89th Street. Colbert was standing outside a car, conversing with two individuals seated inside, when a man approached and inquired if she was affiliated with a gang. Without waiting for a response, the man opened fire, striking Colbert and the two others.
Colbert was pronounced dead at the scene at 10:44 p.m., while the other two victims survived their injuries.
The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Darrell Sherman, fled the scene but was apprehended shortly after near South Hooper Avenue and 83rd Street. Sherman has been charged with one count of murder, two counts of attempted murder, shooting at an occupied vehicle, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Additionally, he faces gang and gun allegations. Sherman pleaded not guilty to the charges and was scheduled to appear in court on February 13, 2019.
The investigation into Colbert's death revealed that the shooting was gang-related, as Sherman allegedly targeted Colbert based on a mistaken belief about her gang affiliation. The Los Angeles County district attorney's office is handling the prosecution, and the case has drawn significant attention due to the senseless nature of the crime and the broader issues of gang violence in the area.
Authorities have urged anyone with information about the case to come forward, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in solving such crimes. The Los Angeles Police Department has also highlighted the role of anonymous tips in aiding their investigations, encouraging residents to use resources like Crime Stoppers to provide information without fear of retaliation.
