Compton homicide case offers $70,000 reward for clues in July shooting
Investigators renewed their search Wednesday for the shooter who killed community activist Eric Washington during a holiday party, adding a new city-funded incentive to the existing bounty.
By Chloe Martin ·
Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department homicide detectives reopened their public appeal Wednesday for information on the fatal shooting of Eric Washington. The department announced that a $70,000 reward is now available for tips leading to the identification, arrest, and conviction of the suspect in the case.
Washington, 37, was shot around 11:20 p.m. on July 4 at the New Wilmington Arms Apartments. The incident occurred in the 700 block of West Laurel Street, a location east of Wilmington Avenue and near the Compton/Woodley Airport. According to the sheriff's department, Washington was attempting to break up an altercation at the apartment complex when he was struck.
The total reward pool combines funding from three different sources. The Los Angeles City Council recently approved a $50,000 contribution. This amount is added to a $20,000 reward previously announced by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors and the city of Compton. A separate shooting at the same location on the same night killed a 19-year-old woman and injured two others, though a suspect has already been charged in that distinct case.
Washington had served as a field deputy for Assemblyman Mike Gipson, a Democrat from Carson. He also worked with the Watts Gang Task Force and the Watts Rising Collaborative. Gipson stated that Washington was attending a community block party and trying to de-escalate a conflict when the gunfire started. “It is no surprise that during the moment of this terrible act, Eric was trying to save a community by preventing a situation that would have taken lives,” Gipson said.
Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly Mitchell supported the county’s portion of the reward in her motion. She described Washington as a devoted community leader and mentor who connected residents to resources and inspired young people across Watts and Compton. Mayor Karen Bass also praised Washington, noting that he chose a life of humble service to invest in young people and families across the city.
The sheriff’s department urged anyone with information to contact the Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500. Residents can also submit anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers by calling 800-222-8477.
Source: MyNewsLA (City News Service)
