Authorities in Los Angeles County have arrested a 20-year-old man accused of fatally shooting a 13-year-old boy in what investigators call an unprovoked and senseless attack outside a Pico Rivera gas station.
Arrest of the Suspect
The suspect, Andres Adan Chavez, was taken into custody Thursday evening during a traffic stop on Whittier Boulevard, less than a mile from the crime scene. Deputies booked him on one count of murder in connection with the killing of 13-year-old Saith Mendez, who was gunned down in front of his mother.
Chavez is being held at the Pico Rivera Sheriff’s Station on a $2 million bond.
Sheriff’s Statement
During a press conference, Sheriff Robert Luna called the crime “cowardly” and “completely unacceptable.”
“To murder an innocent 13-year-old in front of his mother the way he did—we as a community cannot accept this. We need to get this violent individual off the streets,” Luna said.
How the Shooting Happened
On Saturday, August 25, at about 11:35 p.m., Saith was waiting in his mother’s car at the 76 gas station on Whittier Boulevard, where she was working the night shift. He briefly went inside to speak with her, then walked back outside.
Moments later, a tan four-door car pulled into the station. The driver spoke with Saith’s mother at the service window, while Chavez, sitting in the backseat, got out and loitered nearby.
When Saith walked past him, Chavez allegedly drew a firearm and shot the boy at close range without provocation. Witnesses say Chavez then stood over Saith and fired multiple shots into his body before fleeing into a nearby neighborhood.
The driver and another passenger remained at the scene, cooperated with investigators, and were released.
Community Reaction
The brutal killing has devastated the Pico Rivera community, with many outraged over the random and unprovoked violence. Sheriff’s officials have asked the public to come forward with any additional information that may help strengthen the case against Chavez.
The tragic murder of 13-year-old Saith Mendez underscores the devastating impact of senseless gun violence. With Chavez now in custody, prosecutors will push forward in seeking justice for the young victim and his grieving family.
The case has become a sobering reminder of the need for community vigilance and action against violent crime.
