South Los Angeles — A sunny Thursday afternoon turned tragic on Jan. 29, when 21‑year‑old Bryan Canales was shot and killed on South Vermont Avenue, police say. Local authorities confirmed his identity Friday after the young man was found critically wounded in the 8200 block of the neighborhood.
Police were called around 1:45 p.m. to reports of gunshots echoing through the busy 8200 block of South Vermont Avenue, just north of Manchester Avenue. Officers and emergency personnel rushed to the scene, where they found Canales suffering from severe injuries. Despite the frantic efforts of first responders, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
From the moment patrol officers arrived, detectives began piecing together what happened. Investigators set up a canopy over the body and cordoned off the area, turning the bustling street into an active crime scene. At this stage, police have not released a motive, and it’s still unclear why Canales was shot.
Authorities say they’re looking for multiple suspects who may be connected to the shooting. Descriptions from officers note several unidentified female suspects, all wearing dark clothing, were seen heading east on 83rd Street toward a nearby parking garage shortly after the shots rang out. Police continue to appeal to the public for any leads that could help identify those involved.
Neighbors in the area remain on edge. The sound of gunfire in broad daylight has shaken residents who say they’re tired of violence interrupting ordinary life on their streets. Community members who live near the scene said they saw police canvas the area late into the night, speaking with onlookers and searching for clues.
The Los Angeles Police Department has urged anyone with information — even small details — to reach out. Tips can be shared directly with authorities or through anonymous reporting channels. Police emphasize that sometimes the tiniest piece of information can break a case wide open.
Canales’ family has been notified, but out of respect for their privacy, police are holding back some personal details while the investigation continues. As South Los Angeles mourns another life lost to gun violence, law enforcement says updates will be provided as they become available.
