Reward offered to solve L.A. murder, ease mother’s ‘pain of not knowing’

Investigators announced a $25,000 reward on Friday in hopes of identifying and arresting whoever fatally shot a 42-year-old man as he stood in front of a Westmont area home in Los Angeles five years ago.

The cold case investigation revolves around the murder of Corey Pickett, who was gunned down on the 1000 block of West 94th Street when he went outside to admire a family member’s new car on July 12, 2019, at around 11:30 p.m.

“During this time, a dark-colored sedan driving east on 94th Street stopped in front of the residence where Corey, his family member, and the family friend were conversing,” Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Lt. Daniel Vizcarra said during a morning news conference.

Two men then exited the passenger side of the car with firearms and began shooting several rounds at Pickett and the others, Vizcarra said.

Pickett was struck multiple times and died at the scene.

“Corey was a man who loved life … Corey dedicated himself to coaching a local basketball team or hanging out with friends,” his mother said during the news conference.

Investigators shared an image of the suspect vehicle, which the men re-entered after the shooting and then drove eastbound on 94th.

“The pain of not knowing who did this continues to leave an unfillable void,” his mother said.

Investigators are now asking for the public’s help in identifying the two suspects and are offering the $25,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.

Anyone with information was encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Department’s Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500. Those who prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or go to the lacrimestoppers.org website.