Garry Dorton, a 48-year-old community and anti-gang activist from Los Angeles, was tragically killed on July 1, 2018. Dorton, who was known for his efforts to reduce gang violence and support at-risk youth, was shot around 7:30 p.m. in the 4500 block of South Van Ness Boulevard. He was taken to a hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries. Dorton worked with Soledad Enrichment Action Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping high-risk individuals and families in gang-affected
communities. His death was a significant loss to the community he tirelessly served.
The investigation into Dorton's murder led to the arrest of three young men: Brandon Dixon, Dejone Wright, and Omario Guerrero. Dixon, 24, and Wright, 20, were booked on suspicion of murder with bail set at $8 million and $7 million, respectively. Guerrero, 18, was held without bail. The suspects were charged with one count of murder and four counts of attempted murder. On the night of the shooting, the suspects drove by the house where Dorton was, parked, and two of them opened fire on Dorton and five others. Another man was seriously injured but survived after weeks in the hospital. The shooters were believed to be from a rival gang and had specifically targeted Dorton.
Dorton's murder was a deliberate and determined act, according to the Los Angeles Police Department. The suspects were part of the very demographic Dorton had dedicated his life to helping. His work involved mediating disputes between gangs, helping young people find jobs, and encouraging them to avoid the violent paths he had once known. Despite his efforts to bring peace and unity to his community, Dorton became a victim of the violence he fought against. His death was a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those working to end gang violence.
The community mourned the loss of Dorton, who was remembered as a peacemaker and a mentor. His grandmother, Eula Montgomery, shared that Dorton had visited her to wish her a happy birthday shortly before his death. Despite her pleas for him to move out of the community for his safety, Dorton remained committed to his neighborhood. His life and work were celebrated by those who knew him, highlighting his dedication to creating a safer and more supportive environment for the youth of South Los Angeles.
