Francisco Rodriguez Jr. , 17

Died Jan. 11, 2012

Francisco Rodriguez Jr., a 17-year-old Latino, was shot and killed Wednesday, Jan. 11, in the 6900 block of Cozycroft Avenue in Winnetka, according to Los Angeles County coroner's records.

Rodriguez, who had just returned home from a soccer game, answered the front door of his home about 6 p.m. to find a girl with red hair there.

Rodriguez told his family that he was stepping out and was almost immediately shot by a man in a waiting SUV.

Authorities were called and the victim was taken to Northridge Hospital Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead. He sustained multiple gunshot wounds.

Several days after the shooting, two people were arrested in connection with the killing.

Elizabeth Ibarra, a 19-year-old Latina, and Jason Schumann, a 24-year-old Latino, were booked on suspicion of murder Jan. 16.

"We don't believe it is gang-related....We believe it is personally motivated," said LAPD Deputy Chief Jorge Villegas at a news conference.

Detectives believe Rodriguez may have been shot over a romantic relationship, sources told The Times. The popular student had no gang ties but may have been involved with a woman with a jealous male friend, sources said. They provided no additional details.

An anonymous tip helped authorities make the arrest, police said. But they are asking the tipster to contact them to help confirm the motives in the case.

Classmates described Rodriguez as popular and outgoing. On the night he died, Rodriguez made several saves in a game against Taft High School.

Anyone with additional information about the killing is asked to contact the LAPD Topanga homicide detectives at (818) 756-3363. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.

— Los Angeles Times