HOLLYWOOD—The Los Angeles Police Department has recently asked for the public’s help in capturing several suspects involved in the assault of a Hispanic individual in Hollywood. The victim in this case is a transgender woman.

The incident occurred at approximately 1 a.m. on October 4, at La Brea and Melrose avenues.  Police believe that the victim, a 25-year-old San Fernando Valley resident, was severely attacked at a bar by three women and two men. Surveillance footage from a camera located at a medical marijuana business adjacent to the bar captured the victim speaking to individuals who are believed to be the suspects, including a man without a shirt.  Video footage reveals the suspect running towards the victim just prior to the attack.

The victim, whose name is not being released, suffered from serious injuries including a broken jaw and cheekbone. The victim was knocked to the ground, kicked in the face and struck in the head with a bottle, which caused cuts on the victim’s neck.

Witnesses stated to police that as the victim lay in the street, the suspects fled in a white 2000 or later model Chevrolet Suburban. One of the main suspects is described as a Hispanic male in his 20s, approximately 5 feet 6 inches tall.

As of press time, authorities have not labeled the attack as a hate crime.“There is no indication that it was a hate crime,” Detective Agustin Villanueva, of the Los Angeles Police Department’s Wilshire Division, told Canyon News.  “If further facts come to light then we might classify it as a hate crime but that hasn’t been established yet.” He added that no further information is currently available regarding other possible motives.

Canyon News asked Detective Villanueva if he had any suggestions or safety tips for the public on how to avoid becoming a victim of violent assaults. He stated that “being aware of your surroundings and using common sense,” is of utmost importance. Additional information on “street smarts,” managing conflict tips and crime and violence prevention are available at lapdonline.org.

Anyone with additional information on this incident may contact the LAPD Wilshire Division’s Major Assault Crimes Section at 213-922-9234 or 213-922-8268.  For calls after hours, contact 877-LAPD-24-7.  To remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers at 800-222-TIPS, (800-222-8477).

To use the Crimestoppers texting feature, text 274637, (CRIMES on most cell phones).  All text messages need to begin with LAPD.

 

Tipsters may also visit lapdonline.org to click on “report a crime” and follow the instructions.