Three alleged gang members and one alleged gang associate have been charged by federal prosecutors in connection with the fatal shooting of off-duty Los Angeles Police Department officer Fernando Arroyos during an attempted robbery.
The suspects, identified as Luis Alfredo De La Rosa Rios, 29, Ernesto Cisneros, 22, Jesse Contreras, 34, and Haylee Marie Grisham, 18, are allegedly linked to the F-13 gang, according to a US Justice Department release.
According to the complaint, Arroyos was house-hunting with his girlfriend when they were approached by the suspects in a black pickup truck. Rios and Cisneros reportedly pointed guns at Arroyos and his girlfriend, stealing items including chains from Arroyos' neck.
An exchange of gunfire occurred between Arroyos and the suspects, resulting in Arroyos collapsing and the suspects fleeing the scene. Arroyos was taken to a hospital by Los Angeles County sheriff's deputies where he succumbed to his injuries.
The four defendants were allegedly present at the scene of the robbery and shooting and have been charged with violent crime in aid of racketeering, which carries severe penalties including the potential for the death penalty or life imprisonment without parole.
LAPD Chief Michel Moore described Arroyos as a promising young officer who was dedicated to his career. Arroyos, 27, had been with the department for three years and was assigned to the Wilshire Division.
Arroyos' tragic death has left his family devastated. He is survived by his mother and stepfather, with Chief Moore emphasizing that Arroyos had a bright future ahead of him that was senselessly cut short.
The F-13 gang, described as a large, multi-generational street gang, has been the target of previous federal prosecutions for racketeering offenses.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and authorities are working to bring justice for Officer Arroyos and his loved ones.
