A chilling chain of events unfolded before the unprovoked shooting of a 13-year-old boy waiting for his mother to finish her shift at a Pico Rivera gas station, Los Angeles County’s sheriff said a Thursday news conference.
Luna and investigators asked the public’s during the news conference as they continue the search for the killer. Luna identified a suspect in the shooting as 20-year-old Andres Adan Chavez.
The department issued a bulletin that included a photo of the suspect.
“He should be considered armed and dangerous,” Luna said.
The shooting was reported just before midnight Saturday in the gas station parking lot on Whittier Boulevard. The teen victim died at the scene in what authorities described as a random attack.
LASD
LASD A sheriff’s department flyer shows the suspect and victim in a Pico Rivera shooting.
He was identified by the medical examiner’s office as Saith Toledo Mendez, who was waiting in the family’s car for his mother to finish her work shift at the gas station.
Luna, who spoke with the victim’s family about Saith, said the teen is one of five children, including three adult siblings and a younger sister. He liked to play video games and basketball with his friends, Luna said.
“A young man whose life was taken way too soon,” Luna said. “He had a bright and promising future. An incredible young man.”
Saith got out of the car to speak with his mother inside the station.
Moments later, a tan sedan pulled up next to a fuel pump, Luna said. The driver got out of the car and started talking to Saith’s mother at the service window.
A man, later identified as Chavez, exited the car’s rear passenger seat.
“When Saith walked back… he walked past suspect Chavez,” Luna said. “From what we can tell, there was no confrontation before the shooting occurred. Unprovoked, suspect Chavez drew a firearm, took several steps toward Saith and shot him at close range.
“After Saith collapsed to the ground, suspect Chavez stood over him and fire multiple rounds into Saith.”
Chavez ran into a nearby neighborhood. The driver and passenger in the tan sedan remained at the scene. They were questioned and released, pending further investigation.
Investigators say the teen was shot at least four times. Macy Jenkins reports for the NBC4 News at 6 p.m. on Aug. 24, 2025.
No arrests have been reported.
The sheriff’s department scheduled at 9 a.m. news conference to provide more details. Anyone with information is asked to call the sheriff’s Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500. Callers who wish to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or visit lacrimestoppers.org.
Allison Craig is a passionate sports writer and analyst with a deep love for game strategies, player performances, and the latest trends in the sports world. With years of experience covering football, basketball, tennis, and more, she delivers insightful analysis and engaging content for sports enthusiasts.
No responses yet