Authorities seek public’s help in finding killer of Long Beach teen shot near her home

Long Beach, California – The Long Beach Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the suspect responsible for the fatal shooting of 17-year-old Briana Soto near her home in March. Soto was tragically wounded on March 26 at around 8:25 p.m. near 11th Street and Lewis Avenue and later succumbed to her injuries at a hospital.

Police Chief Wally Hebeish held a press conference at police headquarters to share security footage capturing an individual walking in the vicinity of the crime scene. The footage, obtained from security cameras, depicts a male suspect wearing dark clothing and a mask over his face, with indications that he fled southbound and discarded clothing items following the incident.

According to authorities, Soto was walking home from her job at a local McDonald’s when the shooting occurred. The release of the security footage is a crucial step in the ongoing investigation, as law enforcement seeks to bring closure to this senseless act of violence.

Individuals with any information pertinent to the case are encouraged to contact Detectives Ethan Shear or Chasen Contreras at 562-570-7244. The Long Beach community is urged to come forward with any details that may aid in identifying and apprehending the suspect responsible for taking the life of Briana Soto.