Anthony Smithers Obituary, Death – Authorities in Los Angeles have identified the young individual who lost his life following an incident in the Vermont-Vista area of South Los Angeles early Sunday morning.
According to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), officers were called to the 800 block of West 97th Street at around 12:43 a.m. after receiving reports of a disturbance involving possible gunfire. When emergency responders and paramedics arrived at the scene, they found a 15-year-old male with critical injuries. Despite their efforts to provide life-saving assistance, he was pronounced deceased at the location.
The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner later confirmed the victim’s identity as 15-year-old Anthony Smithers. Officials have notified the family, and the coroner’s office is continuing to work closely with local investigators as they gather more information about what led to the tragic event.
Police have not released details about what may have caused the situation or who may have been involved. Detectives from the LAPD’s South Bureau Homicide Division are handling the investigation, reviewing witness statements and gathering potential video footage from nearby homes and businesses in the area. Officers also conducted a canvass of the neighborhood Sunday morning, speaking with residents who might have heard or seen anything unusual in the hours leading up to the incident.
Neighbors described the Vermont-Vista area as generally quiet at night, with many residents expressing concern over what happened. Several community members have since called for peace and cooperation with police as they work to determine the facts.
Authorities say they are still in the early stages of the investigation and are exploring multiple possibilities, including whether the incident was random or if the victim was specifically targeted. So far, no arrests have been made, and no suspects have been publicly identified. Police are urging anyone who may have seen something suspicious or has information that could help move the investigation forward to come forward.
Community leaders and local organizations are also encouraging residents to assist detectives by reporting any relevant information. Tips can be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS (8477) or online through the LA Crime Stoppers website.
The LAPD emphasized that every piece of information, no matter how small, can be crucial in helping investigators piece together what happened. Detectives continue to analyze evidence collected at the scene and are reviewing surveillance footage from the surrounding streets to identify possible vehicles or individuals connected to the incident.
In the aftermath of the event, grief counselors have been made available at local schools and youth centers to provide emotional support for those who knew the victim or have been affected by the news. Local faith-based groups and outreach organizations are planning community vigils to promote unity and healing.
This incident adds to ongoing discussions in Los Angeles about youth safety and the importance of mentorship and community engagement in reducing violence. Officials are calling for continued collaboration between residents, law enforcement, and local leaders to prevent future tragedies and ensure safer neighborhoods for young people across the city.
As of Monday morning, the investigation remains active. Authorities are working diligently to uncover the circumstances surrounding the young teen’s death and to bring clarity and justice to his family and the community.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact LAPD’s South Bureau Homicide Division directly or reach out anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
