A 20-year-old man, Andres Adan Chavez, has been charged with murder in the shooting death of 13-year-old Saith Toledo Mendez at a Pico Rivera gas station. The incident occurred on the night of August 23, while Mendez’s mother was working at the station. Chavez faces a murder charge with a special circumstance of murder while lying in wait, and allegations of using and discharging a firearm, according to the criminal complaint.
The shooting took place at a gas station in the 8800 block of Whittier Boulevard. Mendez had been waiting in his mother’s car and went inside to speak with her before walking past Chavez, who had exited a sedan and was lingering nearby. Without provocation, Chavez allegedly shot Mendez at close range, then stood over him and fired multiple rounds, as reported by NBC Los Angeles.
Chavez was arrested by Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies on August 28, after being located in the 9500 block of Whittier Boulevard. He was charged with murder and carrying a loaded firearm, with allegations that he was not the registered owner of the gun. Chavez, who uses the moniker “Evil,” is being held without bail and is scheduled for arraignment on September 29 at the Norwalk Superior Court.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office is considering whether to seek the death penalty for Chavez, who has a prior conviction for assault in Bakersfield. The shooting has left the community in shock, with many mourning the loss of Mendez, described as a young boy with a promising future who enjoyed video games and basketball. The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau.
Recent Comments