A longtime street vendor who sold tamales in a Westlake neighborhood of Los Angeles was fatally shot in an apparent robbery attempt, and police are asking anyone with information to contact detectives.
Cosme Gonzalez, 46, was found on the sidewalk in the 300 block of Witmer Street with a gunshot wound to the chest. He died during surgery at a local hospital, police said.
Police said the gunman demanded money and when Gonzalez refused to comply, he was shot. After the shooting, the assailant -- described as a man in his 20s, about 5 feet, 5 inches tall and about 155 pounds, with a shaved head -- was seen running west between buildings.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Rampart homicide Dets. Jeff Cortina or John Motto at (213) 484-3650. After hours or on weekends, calls are taken at (877) 527-3247. Tips can also be submitted on the LAPD website,
www.lapdonline.org. All information can be given anonymously.