Man Killed by Langdon Street Gang Members in Van Nuys

The Nugget

The murder of Samuel Cuevas highlights the dangers of gang violence, ultimately leading to the conviction of Hugo Lara and Francisco Ortega for a premeditated attack influenced by gang culture.

Make it stick

🔫 Cuevas was shot in the neck after being chased by gang members, leading to massive blood loss and his death.
🎥 Witnesses reported that the group was drinking and throwing gang signs before the attack, chasing Cuevas down the street.
🚓 After the shooting, the defendants bragged about their actions, indicating a flippant attitude toward violence.
⚖️ Lara and Ortega were both convicted of gang-related murder and sentenced to 95 years to life in prison.

Samuel Cuevas was shot on May 15, 2016, in Van Nuys by gang members, sparking a homicide investigation.
The evening involved drinking and the display of gang affiliation, setting the stage for confrontation.

Cuevas was approached by a gang group who yelled for him to stop.
He attempted to flee but was chased by members, including Hugo Lara and Francisco Ortega.
The defendants pursued Cuevas and ultimately shot him, leading to his death from a severed carotid artery.
Witness Trejo and others participated in the chase, illustrating the mob mentality often seen in gang-related incidents.

After the murder, the defendants returned to a friend's car, revealing their nonchalant attitude about the crime during the drive.
Detective Janine Jones found Cuevas's body with clear indications of gunfire at the scene.
Both men were arrested shortly after, with evidence linking them to the Landon Street gang based on tattoos and signs.

The jury found both Lara and Ortega guilty of gang-related murder and possession of a firearm, resulting in lengthy prison sentences.
The case serves as a grim reminder of the consequences of gang involvement, where violent actions lead to severe penalties and loss of life.

This summary contains AI-generated information and may have important inaccuracies or omissions.