In the early hours of January 1, 2024, 26-year-old Miah Ladelle Banks was fatally shot during an underground New Year's Eve party in downtown Los Angeles. The event took place in a warehouse located in the 2300 block of Porter Street. At approximately 12:53 a.m., the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) received reports of an "ambulance shooting" near 15th Street and Santa Fe Avenue. Upon arrival, officers heard multiple gunshots and observed a large crowd fleeing the area.
They discovered multiple victims lying on the street and sidewalk on Porter Street between Santa Fe Avenue and Mateo Street. Emergency medical personnel pronounced Banks and another victim, 24-year-old Deven Whitaker, deceased at the scene.
The incident resulted in a total of ten individuals being shot, with Banks and Whitaker suffering fatal injuries. Preliminary investigations suggest that an altercation occurred during the party, leading to the exchange of gunfire. As of now, no arrests have been made, and the LAPD has not released any suspect descriptions. Authorities are actively investigating the case and have urged anyone with information to contact Detective Howarth of the LAPD's Operations-Central Bureau Homicide office at 213-996-4143 or 877-LAPD-247. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS or via their website.
Miah Banks, a resident of Azusa, California, was a dedicated hairstylist and a loving mother to her 8-year-old daughter. Family members remember her as a hardworking and kind individual who supported her entire family. Her aunt, La Cherryl Veal, described Banks as someone who "loved everybody" and was always willing to help those in need. Banks had been employed at a local salon for eight years, where she was cherished by colleagues and clients alike. Her untimely death has left her family and community devastated.
In the wake of this tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign was established to assist with funeral expenses and to support Banks's young daughter. The community has shown an outpouring of support, reflecting the positive impact Banks had on those around her. Funeral services were held on January 31, 2024, at Rose Hills Memorial Park's SkyRose Chapel in Whittier, California, where family and friends gathered to honor her memory.
The Los Angeles community continues to grapple with the aftermath of this senseless act of violence. City officials, including Mayor Karen Bass, have expressed condolences to those affected and emphasized the need for proactive measures to address gun violence. The LAPD is committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice and ensuring the safety of all residents. Community members are encouraged to remain vigilant and to cooperate with law enforcement efforts in preventing such tragedies in the future.
