On May 31, 2023, Anthony Rivas, a 32-year-old security guard from North Hollywood, was fatally shot during an attempted robbery at an illegal casino in the 3300 block of Cahuenga Boulevard, near Universal Studios in Los Angeles. Around 3:40 a.m., two masked men armed with rifles entered the establishment through a back entrance. Upon encountering the intruders, Rivas attempted to draw his handgun but was shot multiple times before he could defend himself.
The assailants searched the premises for money but fled empty-handed through the rear door. First responders arrived shortly after and pronounced Rivas dead at the scene.
In the days following the incident, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) launched an investigation that led to the arrest of four individuals connected to the crime. On June 7, 2023, authorities apprehended:
- **Matthew Scott Riley**, 29, of Panorama
- **Rudy Javier Madrid**, 26, of North Hollywood
- **Michael John Blankenship**, 52, of Oxnard
- **Steven Hans Dunkel**, 23, of Glendora
Riley and Madrid, identified as gang members, were charged with murder, while Blankenship and Dunkel faced charges of conspiracy to commit robbery. Investigators believe that Dunkel, a former dealer at the casino, acted as the getaway driver, and Blankenship served as a decoy to facilitate the robbery. The group is suspected of involvement in other armed robberies targeting underground casinos in the area.
Anthony Rivas was remembered as a dedicated father and hardworking individual. He left behind his fiancée, Crystal Najar, and two young children, a 3-year-old daughter named Zoe and an 18-month-old son named AJ. Known affectionately as "Barry White" due to his imposing stature and resemblance to the singer, Rivas was well-liked in his community. His family and friends mourned his untimely death, emphasizing his generosity and commitment to providing for his loved ones.
The arrests brought some measure of relief to the community, though the loss of Rivas continues to resonate deeply with those who knew him. The incident also shed light on the existence of illegal gambling operations in Los Angeles and the associated risks, prompting discussions about the need for increased enforcement and regulation to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
