According to the report from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, Oswaldo Balderas’ cause of death has been determined as a “homicide” resulting from a “gunshot wound to the head.”
According to Lt. Omar Camacho, the LA County Sheriff’s Department is currently investigating the case as a potential gang-related incident.
On August 1st, Balderas, a 20-year-old resident of the City of San Fernando, was shot inside the AutoZone Auto Parts store located on Maclay Avenue.
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According to Camacho, he was rushed to a nearby hospital and placed on life support. Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries the following day.
Lizette Robles commented on a San Fernando Valley Sun/el Sol Facebook post, stating that not all the employees witnessed the killers as they had to quickly seek safety in the back upon hearing the gunshot. The incident unfolded with alarming speed.
Store employees have been explicitly told not to engage in any discussions regarding the incident with the media.
According to people familiar with him, Balderas had previously been involved with a gang. However, they also noted that he had made significant changes in his life and was now on a different path.
“He was trying to turn his life around,” Raquel Marie shared on Facebook. “Two of my children knew him, and he was determined to make positive changes, especially after becoming a father. May he rest in peace, young soul.”
According to Erica Martinez, a close friend of Balderas, he recently welcomed fatherhood and his son bears a striking resemblance to him.
“We’re still struggling to come to terms with the fact that he’s no longer with us,” Martinez expressed. “It’s hard to believe that he won’t be showing up at our doorstep anymore, his infectious smile lighting up the room.”
After the shooting, the community came together to honor Balderas by setting up a memorial outside the AutoZone on First Street. Friends and acquaintances have organized several memorials and fundraisers to support Balderas’ family and cover the costs of his service.