Full Notification

Dead Man Found in Burning Car

Arleta.  The body of a dead man between 25 and 35 years old was found in the trunk of a burning Audi A4 Monday night in an alley in Arleta.  Detectives are asking the public’s help to solve the case.

“The fire fully engulfed the passenger compartment, but never made it to the trunk,” said Lt. Paul Vernon, commanding officer of the Mission Detective Division.  “It appears the man was already dead when the fire was set.  It looks like the killer(s) was trying to cover his tracks.”

Around 10:20 PM, the fire department received a call of a dumpster fire in an alley off Vena Avenue and Terra Bella Street in Arleta.  The alley is named Garber Street.  When firefighters put out the burning car, they discovered the body inside the trunk.

 “The man’s cause of death was not readily apparent,” Lt. Vernon said.  “We’ll have to wait for the coroner’s conclusion to find out, but the murder does show signs of gang or narcotics influence.”

Detectives canvased the neighborhood and the alley for clues in the case.  The fire department’s Arson Unit was also at the crime scene.

Due to the circumstances of the case, Robbery Homicide Division took over the investigation.

Anyone with information is urged to call Robbery Homicide Division, at (818) 486-6890.  Anonymous tips can be called into Crimestoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477), or by texting 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.”  Online tips may be placed at www.LAPDOnline.org, click on “webtips” and follow the prompts.

# # # # #