On May 9, 2023, at approximately 11:32 p.m., 12-year-old Eric Gregory Brown III was walking with two friends—a 14-year-old girl and a 13-year-old girl—along the 2200 block of Lewis Avenue in Long Beach, California. As they proceeded, a vehicle containing at least two male suspects approached them. Without provocation, an unknown number of occupants opened fire on the group.
Eric sustained a life-threatening gunshot wound to the upper body and was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. The 14-year-old girl suffered a non-life-threatening gunshot wound to the lower body and was treated at the hospital, while the 13-year-old girl remained physically unharmed.
In the ensuing investigation, Long Beach Police Department detectives utilized security camera footage and Automatic License Plate Reader (ALPR) technology to identify the suspect vehicle. This led to the identification of two suspects: 20-year-old Reshawn Strother, a documented gang member from Cypress, and his girlfriend, 21-year-old Destenee Sheree Scipio of Long Beach. Strother was already in custody on unrelated charges at the time of identification. Both individuals were subsequently charged with murder, attempted murder, and conspiracy to commit a crime. Strother's bail was set at $5,000,000, while Scipio's was set at $4,000,000.
Authorities believe the shooting stemmed from an earlier gang-related confrontation that did not involve the victims, indicating that Eric and his friends were innocent bystanders caught in a senseless act of violence. Long Beach Police Chief Wally Hebeish condemned the act, emphasizing the community's commitment to eradicating gun violence and bringing those responsible to justice. Mayor Rex Richardson also expressed condolences, highlighting the city's dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of its youth.
In the wake of this tragedy, Eric's family and the Long Beach community have mourned the loss of a vibrant young boy known for his infectious smile and energetic personality. Vigils and memorials have been held in his honor, with family members and community leaders calling for an end to gun violence and the protection of innocent lives.
The arrests of Strother and Scipio mark a significant step toward justice for Eric's family. The Long Beach Police Department continues to investigate the case, urging anyone with additional information to come forward. Anonymous tips can be submitted through "LA Crime Stoppers" by calling 800-222-TIPS (8477), downloading the "P3 Tips" app, or visiting www.lacrimestoppers.org.
