On the evening of May 21, 2024, at approximately 10:20 p.m., deputies from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department's Walnut Station responded to reports of gunfire in the 2500 block of Doubletree Lane in Rowland Heights, California. Upon arrival, they discovered 34-year-old James Michael Rivas, a resident of Hacienda Heights, lying in the driveway of a residence with a gunshot wound to his neck. Paramedics from the Los Angeles County Fire Department pronounced him dead at the scene.
Neighbors indicated that the home where Rivas was found had been occupied by several squatters. Despite this lead, authorities have not publicly disclosed a motive for the shooting. The suspect or suspects fled the scene in an unknown direction, and as of the latest reports, no arrests have been made in connection with Rivas's death. The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department continues to investigate and has urged anyone with information to contact their Homicide Bureau or provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers.
James Michael Rivas was born in Bellflower, California, and resided in Hacienda Heights at the time of his passing. He is survived by his parents, Francisco Rivas III and Vivian Leidelmeijer, as well as his siblings and extended family. A viewing was held on June 3, 2024, at St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church in La Mirada, followed by a rosary and Mass to honor his memory.
In the months following the incident, the community has sought answers regarding the circumstances surrounding Rivas's death. Despite the ongoing investigation, no new information has been released about potential suspects or arrests. Authorities continue to encourage individuals with any knowledge of the event to come forward to assist in bringing closure to this tragic case.
