Azusa Assault Victim Found Dead in Canyon, Three of Four Suspects Arrested
AZUSA – Deputies arrived on-scene Monday night for a disturbance call at the 6100 block of Goodway Drive of unincorporated Azusa. A trail of blood on the ground led them to an unoccupied home. Later, they discovered a deceased assault victim in the canyon.
LASD said, “Deputies formed the opinion that a medical emergency or a criminal act had occurred. Station detectives began their investigation. Homicide detectives responded to continue the investigation.”
Initial Scene
During this as yet “very active ongoing investigation,” investigators determined that an assault occured in the home. The suspects drove a male Hispanic adult to Azusa Canyon, Highway 39, mile marker 21.91. Questions arose as to whether he was alive at that point.
Subsequently, homicide detectives in tandem with San Dimas Sheriff’s Station personnel covered the area because of developing information.
Body Discovered
After two hours of searching they discovered the deceased victim, 30 feet down the hill from the roadway, covered in blood. Even more than a suspicious scene, now this incident became a homicide investigation.
He suffered what appeared to be blunt force trauma. Homicide investigators announced, “The deceased person was discovered at approximately 5:55 p.m., on Wednesday, May 30, 2018. Investigators found him in heavy brush on San Gabriel Canyon Road near mile marker 20, in Azusa Canyon.”
Three Arrested
Consequently, LASD arrested three male suspects in their early 20’s, all acquaintances of the victim. One suspect remains outstanding.
Neighbors reported that college students lived at the residence. Authorities have not released any suspect names at this time.
Authorities are withholding the victim’s name pending notification of his next of kin. While suspect #4 is sought, detectives are releasing no further information, including the motive, at this time.
Concerned citizens with helpful information can contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Homicide Bureau (323) 890-5500. Also, to provide information anonymously, call “Crime Stoppers” (800) 222-TIPS (8477).
