Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office Offers $60,000 Reward for 2021 Compton Shooting

On a quiet night in Compton, two young men were shot to death just before 1 a.m. on November 14, 2021. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has now announced a $60,000 reward to encourage anyone with information to come forward. The victims, Javier Menchaca, 19, and Juan Orozco, 22, were inside Menchaca’s car during an illegal street‑race event near 1940 N. Bullis Road and Pine Street when the gunfire erupted. Both were pronounced dead at the scene, and the incident left a community stunned and in search of answers.

The shooting occurred during a gathering of more than 100 people at the intersection. Witnesses reported that the crowd scattered as shots rang out. According to the sheriff’s office, the victims were seated in Menchaca’s vehicle when the fatal shots were fired. The event was described as an illegal street race or takeover, a dangerous activity that attracts large crowds. The exact motive and identity of the shooter remain unknown, prompting law enforcement to seek the public’s help.

On Tuesday, sheriff’s investigators unveiled a $60,000 reward for information that leads to the person or people responsible for the killings. The reward is part of a broader effort to bring justice to the families and to close a case that has lingered for four years. The department emphasized that any detail, no matter how small, could be crucial. By offering this financial incentive, the sheriff’s office hopes to encourage witnesses who may have seen or heard something critical to come forward.

“This was a senseless act of violence carried out in a crowded area where dozens of people may have seen or heard something critical,” said sheriff’s homicide Lieutenant Michael Gomez. “We know someone in that crowd has information that can help bring justice to these two young men and provide answers to their families. We are urging anyone with knowledge of this crime no matter how small it may seem to come forward.”

Orozco’s mother, Sylvia, spoke through an interpreter during the release. She said, “My son never came home that night, and our family has lived with this pain every day since. If you saw something or know who did this, please speak up. Help us get justice for Juan and Javier and allow our families to begin to heal.”

Anyone who witnessed the shooting or has any information is urged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Homicide Bureau at 323‑890‑5500. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 800‑222‑TIPS (8477). The department stresses that even seemingly minor details could assist in identifying the perpetrators. The community’s cooperation is seen as essential to resolving a case that has left a void in the lives of the victims’ loved ones.

The sheriff’s office has provided clear avenues for reporting. Victims’ families and the public can reach out via the Homicide Bureau’s phone number or through Crime Stoppers for anonymity. The reward announcement is intended to mobilize witnesses who may have hesitated to speak up previously. Law enforcement officials are also working with local community leaders to spread the message and encourage those who may have observed the event to share their observations.

Key Takeaways

• $60,000 reward offered for information on 2021 Compton shooting.
• Victims: Javier Menchaca (19) and Juan Orozco (22) shot before 1 a.m. Nov. 14.
• Incident occurred during illegal street race near 1940 N. Bullis Road and Pine Street.
• Over 100 people present; crowd scattered when gunshots rang.
• Sheriff’s Lt. Michael Gomez urges witnesses to come forward.
• Sylvia Orozco seeks justice and healing for her son.

The tragic loss of Javier Menchaca and Juan Orozco remains a stark reminder of the dangers that illegal street‑race events pose to communities. By offering a substantial reward and appealing to the public’s conscience, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department hopes to unearth the truth behind the shooting. The families, the community, and law‑enforcement officials all await any new information that could bring closure and justice. If you have any details, please contact the sheriff’s office or Crime Stoppers today.