Larry Galvan, a 27-year-old resident of Compton, California, tragically lost his life on February 22, 2016, in a gang-related shooting in East Los Angeles. Larry and his brother Dennis were walking on South La Verne Avenue when they were approached by an unknown assailant who opened fire on them. Larry was struck multiple times in the chest and succumbed to his injuries at the hospital, while Dennis sustained a gunshot wound to his foot but survived.
The incident occurred in broad daylight, just after noon, and the shooter fled the scene in a sport utility vehicle heading north on La Verne Avenue.
The Galvan brothers were returning to their mother's home after running an errand when the attack took place. Larry, who was known for his dedication to his family, often took care of his mother, accompanying her to doctor appointments and handling household chores. On the day of the shooting, they had just purchased a mop for their mother. The family, including their brother Isaac Galvan, a Compton City Councilman, was devastated by the loss. Isaac expressed his grief publicly, emphasizing that his brothers were not involved in gang activities and suggesting that the shooting might have been a case of mistaken identity.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department launched an investigation into the shooting, which they believed to be gang-related and targeted. Despite the family's assertions that Larry and Dennis were not gang members, the authorities continued to explore the possibility of gang involvement. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots and seeing the brothers collapse in a nearby driveway. A neighbor, Vanessa Cosgaya, recounted how she tried to assist Larry by applying pressure to his wounds and calling 911, but he did not survive.
In the aftermath of the shooting, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors approved a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for Larry's death. The Sheriff's Homicide Bureau urged anyone with information to come forward, offering anonymity to tipsters through Crime Stoppers. Despite these efforts, the case remains unsolved, and the family continues to seek justice for Larry. The community's response highlighted the ongoing issue of gang violence in the area and the need for continued efforts to address and prevent such tragedies.
