$75,000 reward offered in unsolved murder of 4-year-old Southern California boy

A $75,000 reward is being offered for information on the unsolved murder of a Monrovia boy.

The child, 4-year-old Salvador Esparza III, was shot and killed while standing on a house porch on the 300 block of Figueroa Drive in Altadena on July 5, 2016, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

Esparza was at the home’s front door when the unidentified shooter opened fire, striking him in the head, authorities said. He was found lying on the porch with another gunshot victim, a 27-year-old man.

The boy was transported to the hospital where he died from his injuries. The 27-year-old man survived. His identity was not released.

According to witnesses, the suspect was chasing the 27-year-old outside the home when he shot at him, striking both victims. 

An argument may have taken place with others inside the home before the deadly shooting, officials said. The killer approached the victims from Olive Street, fired at least 13 shots, ran down the street and fled in a dark-colored car, deputies said.

“LASD investigators believe the suspect to be a gang member, and the shooting is believed to be gang-related,” authorities said. “LASD investigators also believe that Salvador and his family were not the intended target.”

On July 29, a $75,000 reward was renewed by Los Angeles County in a motion approved by Supervisor Kathryn Barger. The reward has increased over the years from an initial $20,000.

“This is a plea to the public,” Barger said. “Nine years ago, this innocent child’s life was stolen in a senseless act of violence. Someone knows what happened–and even the smallest tip could be the key to justice. I implore anyone with information to come forward and help us bring closure to the Esparza family.”

“Salvador ‘Chavita’ Esparza’s life was needlessly cut short at just 4 years old,” said Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo. “We must not forget this innocent child. I want to emphasize that the community’s help is vital. Supervisor Barger’s leadership in renewing the reward reinforces our shared commitment to accountability and justice.”

Esparza is survived by his parents and grandparents.

Anyone with information on this case is asked to call the LASD Detective Adam Kirste or Sergeant John Aanarial at 323-890-5500. Anonymous tips can be reported to the Los Angeles Regional Crime Stoppers Hotline at 800-222-8477 or submitted online at lacrimestoppers.org.