Unique Russell, a 14-year-old black girl, was shot and killed Wednesday, July 4, in the 1300 block of West 97th Street in Westmont, according to Los Angeles County coroner's records.
The shooting occurred at 97th Street and Normandie Avenue about 10:20 p.m., the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department reported. Unique Russell, a 12-year-old girl and a 21-year-old man — were with a group of people when two men walked up and opened fire, authorities said.
The victims were taken to an area hospital, where Unique later died, authorities said. The other girl and the man remain in the hospital but their condition was not known.
Details of the incident were still developing, but KTLA reported that the group was watching fireworks when the shooting happened.
A detailed description of the suspects was not available, and authorities said the motive of the shooting was still not known.
They ask anyone with information about the attack to contact the sheriff’s homicide bureau at (323) 890-5500. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.
— Kate Mather