In the early hours of Saturday, May 11, 2024 a violent incident on the eastbound 10 Freeway in Covina, California, led to the death of 19-year-old Alexander Espino.
A motorcyclist dressed in black and wearing a black helmet reportedly opened fire on Espino’s white Chevrolet Camaro. The incident was reported at 2:16 a.m., prompting California Highway Patrol officers to rush to the Via Verde exit. Upon arrival, they found Espino seriously wounded, with bullet holes in his vehicle.
Despite the efforts of emergency responders who arrived in seven minutes, Espino, who was from Bloomington, California, was pronounced dead at the scene. His 19-year-old cousin, who was also in the car, escaped physical harm and helped steer the vehicle to the side of the freeway before calling 911.
The freeway, a critical route for early morning travelers, was closed for nearly four hours, causing significant disruptions.
Investigators are working to determine the motive behind the shooting, with some suggesting it might have been a case of mistaken identity. The assailant, described as riding a black Harley-Davidson-style motorcycle, remains at large.
California Highway Patrol (CHP) Officer Sean Lough and Sergeant Dan Keene highlighted the swift response and life-saving attempts at the scene. “We did everything we could when we got there,” said Keene.
As the investigation into Espino’s death continues, authorities are urging any witnesses or individuals with information to help capture the perpetrator. “We are calling on anyone who saw anything or has any information to please come forward,” said CHP investigator M. Prado. “Your information could be crucial in finding who did this and bringing them to justice.”