Angel Maciel, a 28-year-old Latino, was tragically shot and killed on October 29, 2017, in the Arleta neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. According to the Los Angeles County coroner’s records, Maciel was riding his skateboard south on Stanwin Avenue around 3:40 p.m. when a car pulled up alongside him. Someone inside the vehicle began shooting, hitting Maciel multiple times. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 4:13 p.m.
The suspect or suspects fled the scene in a small, four-door, green car. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has been actively investigating the case, but as of now, no arrests have been made.
The LAPD released surveillance footage showing Maciel skateboarding moments before the shooting. The video also captured a dark green 1998-2000 Honda Accord speeding away from the scene with its windows down, indicating multiple occupants inside. Detective Ryan Verna, who is leading the investigation, mentioned that the shooting did not appear to be random. Although Maciel was not affiliated with any gangs, he had friends who were, and the neighborhood where the incident occurred is known for gang activity. This connection has led investigators to consider gang-related motives as a possible angle in the case.
In an effort to gather more information, the LAPD announced a $50,000 reward for any tips leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspect or suspects involved in Maciel’s murder. Despite the reward and the release of the surveillance footage, the case remains unsolved. Maciel’s longtime girlfriend, Stephanie, described him as a kind and caring individual who split his time between working and visiting his mother in Mexico. She expressed her determination to seek justice for Maciel, emphasizing that they would not rest until they knew who was responsible for his death and why it happened.
The investigation into Angel Maciel’s murder continues, with the LAPD urging anyone with information to come forward. The case highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in solving gang-related crimes, especially when the victim is not directly involved in gang activities. The community and Maciel’s loved ones remain hopeful that new leads will emerge, bringing them closer to finding the perpetrator and achieving justice for Angel Maciel.
