Arrest made in L.A. girl's shooting death
In a December 14th press conference, the LASD announced that they have arrested one of the suspects in the July 4th murder of 14-year-old Unique Russell and the attempted murder of two other victims. 19-year-old Michael “Cripto” Staton was arrested in his Compton home for his involvement in the Los Angeles shooting.
Michael “Cripto” Staton was arrested for shooting into the July 4 crowd, killing Russell
According to an LASD press release, Russell was amongst a group of people gathered on the 1300 block of West 97th Street when the suspects opened fire. Russell was apart of the three victims that were hit, and the Washington Prep High School student would later succumb to her injuries at a local hospital.
After Staton’s arrest, the LASD stressed their commitment to finding the second suspect involved in the murder, who is described as a black male between the ages of 18 and 25. The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors is offering a $100,000 reward for anyone with information that could lead to an arrest. Supervisor Mark Ridely-Thomas echoed this sentiment at the press conference.
Unique Russell was 14 when the shooting took her life
“The detectives are not done. We will not turn our back until the full weight of the law is imposed,” said Supervisor Ridley-Thomas.
The strongest plea for justice came from Russell’s mother, Donna Wade.
“My baby would have turned 15 this October and it’s very hard during the holidays without her. This provides me a little comfort but I want everyone who was involved…I want them all,” said Wade.
Supervisor Mark Ridely-Thomas announces the first arrest in the killing of Unique Russell
Investigators are seeking the assistance of the public and anyone that has information is encouraged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500. If you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call “Crime Stoppers” by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477), or texting the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or by using the website http://lacrimestoppers.org
Read More:
KPCC: 19-year-old alleged gang member arrested in July 4 killing of Unique Russell
LA Times: 1 arrested, 1 sought in July 4 killing of Unique Russell
