MELROSE—On Wednesday, July 2, the Los Angeles Police Department announced that detectives from the Operations West Bureau Homicide are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a woman who was critically injured during an altercation in Wilshire Division.
The LAPD reported on June 24, around 2:15 p.m., Wilshire Area patrol officers responded to a radio call of a felony battery at a convenience store located in the 5700 block of Melrose Avenue.
Early details in the investigation noted that two women were involved in a verbal dispute inside the business that turned into a physical confrontation.
Responding officers located an unconscious woman in her 20s on the floor of the store. She was later identified as Jessica McLaughlin. Paramedics with the Los Angeles Fire Department transported her to a local hospital, where she remained in critical condition. On July 2, she was pronounced deceased at the hospital.
Operations West Bureau Homicide detectives assumed investigative responsibility and obtained video evidence of the incident but are not releasing it at the moment.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office will complete their investigation and determine the cause and manner of death.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Operations West Bureau Homicide detectives at (213) 473-9470. During non-business hours or weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Those wanting to remain anonymous may submit tips through LA Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or online at www.lacrimestoppers.org.
By Danny Jones