Two men from Los Angeles have been arrested in connection with a fatal shooting in Long Beach that claimed the life of a 20-year-old man, according to the police. Robert Mallard, 23, and John Nelson II, 19, were apprehended by West Division officers at a nearby hospital on Sunday after fleeing the scene of the shooting. The victim, Kelvin Montoya, was a Long Beach resident.
Investigators determined that Mallard and Nelson were involved in the shooting and promptly notified the special investigation detectives tasked with the case. During a search of the immediate area, officers discovered a discarded firearm. Homicide detectives later gathered crucial evidence that identified Mallard and Nelson as the primary suspects in the fatal shooting, which occurred on Sunday evening at approximately 7:21 p.m.
The investigation suggests that Montoya, Mallard, and Nelson were acquainted with each other and had arranged to meet at a specific location for a marijuana transaction. The trio then found themselves together inside a vehicle, traveling through Long Beach. At some point during the journey, a heated altercation broke out between all three individuals. Tragically, the dispute escalated into a violent encounter involving both a shooting and a stabbing near 29th Street and Chestnut Avenue, resulting in Montoya’s untimely death.
Both Mallard and Nelson sustained injuries during the incident and were subsequently transported to a hospital for treatment. Detectives believe that the possible motive for the altercation may have been robbery, though further investigation is still needed to confirm this. As the case progresses, detectives intend to present the evidence to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for consideration of filing charges.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation. They can contact Homicide Detectives Sean Magee or Juan Carlos Reyes at 562-570-7244. Those who wish to remain anonymous can alternatively provide tips to Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477.
In conclusion, two Los Angeles men have been taken into custody following their alleged involvement in a fatal shooting in Long Beach. The victim, Kelvin Montoya, tragically lost his life during a confrontation that occurred while traveling in a vehicle. The investigation is ongoing, with detectives diligently working to determine the motive behind the incident. The police are appealing to the public for any information that could help shed light on the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
