LASD investigates deputy’s delayed response to South LA shooting – NBC Los Angeles

Community leaders and the family of a woman shot and killed in a drive-by shooting are questioning why police were slow to respond to the tragedy.

Raejonette Morgan, 22, was fatally shot in the West Athens area near South Los Angeles on Tuesday. She was found critically wounded in a bullet-riddled Mercedes Benz that was parked on the sidewalk at the Vermont Avenue exit of the westbound 105 Freeway.

Dione Leslie posted a livestream on Facebook shortly after the shooting. Her footage shows a Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department deputy standing just feet away from the Mercedes where Morgan lay wounded.

“When I got to the vehicle, I looked to see if anyone was there because he was on the phone saying there had been a death,” Leslie recalled at a press conference held by Morgan’s family.

Leslie’s footage then shows her approaching the vehicle and realizing that Morgan is still alive.

Community leaders and family are demanding answers and justice after a 22-year-old woman was shot and killed in a drive-by shooting in Athens Tuesday night. Alex Rozier reports for NBC4 News on July 6, 2024 at 6 p.m.

“I looked at her, our eyes met, and in that moment I knew she needed me,” Leslie said.

Leslie pleaded with the officer, pointing out that Morgan was still breathing. She also told the officer to help the injured victim. However, the officer stayed near her patrol car while calling for help, so Leslie took matters into her own hands to save Morgan’s life.

Leslie smashed the passenger window with a boot and did what she could to save Morgan.

“I was there for her. I didn’t want to let her down, and if I had to go to jail for it, then that’s what I had to do,” Leslie said.

When backup arrived, several officers helped pull Morgan from the vehicle. She was then taken to Harbor UCLA Medical Center, where she succumbed to her injuries.

“That was my only baby, my little girl,” said a heartbroken Anginette Morgan, the victim’s mother.

During a press conference on Friday, she called for an investigation into the deputy’s inaction in rescuing her daughter. On Saturday, the LASD said it had opened a “critical incident investigation” to look into the case.

“We are deeply concerned about this incident and investigators are working tirelessly to solve this heinous murder and bring justice to the family,” the LASD statement said. “We extend our sincere condolences to the family of Raejonette Morgan during this tragic time.”

“We thank the concerned community members who responded to the scene to provide assistance,” the department also said.

The LASD has not released the name of the deputy they are investigating.

Details of the incidents were not immediately clear. The shooter responsible for Raejonette’s death is still at large. A description of the person was not provided.

Anyone with information about the case is asked to contact the LASD Homicide Division at 323-890-5500. Anonymous tips can be made to Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS.