On September 16, 2024, at approximately 2 a.m., Huntington Beach police officers responded to reports of a man with significant injuries near Olive Avenue and Main Street. The victim, later identified as 29-year-old Rozzalle Lamont Hellens, was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. The exact nature of his injuries has not been publicly disclosed due to the ongoing investigation.
Authorities have not released information regarding potential suspects or arrests related to Hellens' death. However, they believe the incident was isolated and poses no ongoing threat to the public. The Huntington Beach Police Department, with assistance from the Orange County Sheriff's Department, continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the case. They have urged anyone with information to contact Detective Sergeant Anthony Pham at (714) 878-5640.
Prior to his death, Hellens had multiple encounters with law enforcement. In May 2021, he was charged with assaulting his live-in girlfriend and police officers in Anaheim. The charges included assault with force likely to produce great bodily injury, corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant, false imprisonment, child abuse and endangerment, criminal threats, and assault with a weapon on a peace officer. Additionally, in August 2023, Hellens was arrested in Whittier on suspicion of inflicting corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant. His criminal record also includes arrests for driving with a suspended license, evading a peace officer, and parole violations.
Despite his criminal history, Hellens' death is being treated with the same level of scrutiny and importance as any other homicide investigation. The community and law enforcement are seeking justice for his untimely demise. As of now, no further details have been released, and the investigation remains active.
