On the evening of October 23, 2023, at approximately 7:45 p.m., Pasadena police responded to reports of gunfire near the intersection of West Hammond Street and Morton Avenue, close to Robinson Recreation Park. The alerts were triggered by the city's ShotSpotter gunshot detection system and multiple 911 calls from residents. Upon arrival, officers discovered 26-year-old Pasadena resident, Cecilio Hernandez Ramirez Jr., unresponsive in the parking lot of a multi-unit apartment complex.
He had sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
During the initial investigation, a second victim, a 17-year-old male from Altadena, arrived at the same hospital via private transportation. He had suffered a non-life-threatening gunshot wound. The identities of both victims were confirmed by the Los Angeles County Coroner's Office.
The Pasadena Police Department's Robbery/Homicide Unit immediately commenced an investigation into the incident. As of the latest available information, the motive behind the shooting remains unknown, and no suspects have been publicly identified or arrested. Authorities have urged anyone with information to contact the Pasadena Police at (626) 744-4241 or report information anonymously via "Crime Stoppers" at (800) 222-TIPS (8477).
In response to the tragedy, a community meeting was held on November 2, 2023, led by Pasadena City Councilmember Justin Jones. The meeting aimed to address residents' concerns about safety and security in the area, particularly at the Kings Village Apartments near the crime scene. Residents expressed worries about the lack of on-site security and surveillance cameras. City officials, including the City Manager and Deputy Chief of Police, were present to discuss potential measures to enhance safety and prevent future incidents.
The investigation into the death of Cecilio Hernandez Ramirez Jr. is ongoing. Authorities continue to seek assistance from the public to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the shooting and to identify any potential suspects involved.
