After the shooting, the LAPD/FBI Fugitive Task Force, along with gang enforcement units and Valley Bureau homicide detectives, identified and arrested two suspects
Two suspects have been arrested and charged in the killing of a 22-year-old woman who was fatally shot during an attempted robbery in Northridge, authorities said Wednesday.
Police said Maria De La Rosa was in a parked vehicle with friends early Nov. 22 when two men approached and tried to rob them near Bryant Street east of Tampa Avenue. As the victims attempted to flee, the suspects opened fire, striking De La Rosa. She later died at a hospital.
In the days following the shooting, the LAPD/FBI Fugitive Task Force, along with gang enforcement units from the Devonshire and Mission divisions and Valley Bureau homicide detectives, identified and arrested two suspects, officials said.
Prosecutors have filed charges against:
• Francisco Gaytan, 27, of North Hills, charged with murder with special circumstances — alleging the killing occurred during a robbery — and attempted robbery. He is being held without bail.
• Benny Lincon Gomez, 27, also of North Hills, charged with the same counts and held without bail.
The LAPD initially reported that the motive was unclear and no arrests had been made, but investigators now say the shooting stemmed from the attempted robbery.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Operations Valley Bureau Homicide at (818) 374-9550. Anonymous tips can be submitted through L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online.
