On January 29, 2024, at approximately 11:56 p.m., 35-year-old James Avila was fatally shot in the 900 block of West Holt Avenue in Pomona, California. Responding to reports of gunfire, Pomona Police Department officers arrived to find Avila suffering from a gunshot wound. He received immediate medical attention at the scene and was subsequently transported to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Following an extensive investigation by the Pomona Police Department's Major Crimes Unit, two suspects were identified and apprehended in connection with Avila's murder. On February 9, 2024, 29-year-old Armando Wardle and 28-year-old Mayan Ayala were arrested. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office charged both individuals with one count of murder each. Additionally, Wardle faced charges for prior felony conviction enhancements, possession of a firearm by a felon, and use of a firearm during the commission of a crime.
The motive behind the shooting has not been publicly disclosed. Both suspects have made initial court appearances and are scheduled for further proceedings in Pomona Superior Court on March 19, 2024. Wardle is being held without bail, while Ayala's bail is set at $2 million. The arrests have provided some relief to the community, though questions remain as to the circumstances leading to Avila's death.
