Louis Velazquez, 18

Died Jan. 23, 2010 at 11:07 p.m.

Louis Velazquez, an 18-year-old Latino, died Saturday, Jan. 23, after being shot in the 11200 block of Califa Street in North Hollywood, authorities said.

Los Angeles Police Det. Kirk Partick said Velazquez and two companions were walking down the street on their way back from a friend's house when they were challenged by a Latino man about 10:15 p.m.

Patrick said the suspect, described only as a Latino man wearing dark clothing, approached the group and asked them, "Where are you from?" Patrick said the question is a typical gang challenge asked to determine someone's gang affiliation and that there is no correct answer.

Before Velazquez or his friends could answer, the gunman opened fire at the group, striking Velazquez several times and wounding one of his companions, Patrick said. The companion, whom police did not identify, was stable and expected to survive.

Patrick said he would not discuss whether Velazquez or his companions were involved in gang activity but said the shooting is being investigated as a gang-related crime.

Velazquez was taken to a hospital where he was pronounced dead at 11:07 p.m., according to coroner's records.

— Anthony Pesce