Lompoc police seek information on second homicide of 2021 as detectives continue search for suspects

LOMPOC, Calif. – The Lompoc Police Department is asking for the public's help in gathering information on Thursday evening's homicide. The department is on its second day investigating the incident.

At around 5:35 p.m., Officers responded to a call of shots fired on the 600 block of West Maple Avenue, near North N St.

Upon arrival, a 28-year-old man was found with gunshot wounds. He was rushed to a local hospital where he died from his injuries, according to Lompoc Police.

"At this time, it's still too early to say it was gang-related or not," said Sergeant Vincent Magallon. "We're still on the preliminary investigation trying to determine what the motive behind the shooting was."

Sgt. Magallon said this is the second homicide of 2021 and it is concerning.

"It's hard to say what causes to go out and commit these crimes," said Sgt. Magallon. "If we knew what exactly that was, we would try and go out there and prevent that."

A car that was connected to the incident was found, according to police.

Now the department is turning to the public for tips leading to an arrest of a suspect.

"We know that some people are hesitant in coming forward to talking to us," said Sgt. Magallon. "But without their information, it is hard to be able to solve and prove these cases."

Anyone with information is asked to call the Lompoc Police Department at (805) 736-2341.