(January 9, 2008) -- Flanked by Mayor Bob Foster and LBPD Command staff, LB Police Chief Anthony Batts today (Jan. 9) announced the Jan. 7 arrest of three suspects in a Jan. 1 quadruple shooting that killed Jonathan Fernandez, 25, of LB and wounded three young adults (two women, ages 18 and 21, and a man age 20, all LB residents) in the 1900 block of Pine Ave.

At an afternoon press announcement at LBPD HQ attended by LB and L.A. media outlets, Chief Batts said, "We have three suspects in custody who are going to be brought to justice for this crime," saying they were a 15 year old from Victorville, a 17 year old from Long Beach...and a 21 year-old from Compton.

Chief Batts said the L.A. County District Attorney's office has filed one count of murder, three counts of attempted murder and a gang enhancement charge against the LB 17 yr-old and the Compton 21 yr-old.

Chief Batts said LBPD isn't identifying the shooter for now, citing a continuing investigation...and added that LBPD "believes there could be additional suspects outstanding." He called the three suspects now in custody "documented gang members" but said the motive of the shooting remains under investgation.

Chief Batts said the shooter stood at a four foot fence, reached over and fired multiple shots into an area where a party was taking place. Chief Batts said that the 20 year old male victim "acted very courageously, ran out to try to stop the shooting and sustained multiple gunshot wounds."

He urged citizens who might have additional information to phone (562) 570-7244.

Mayor Foster extended condolences on behalf of the City to the family of Jonathan Fernandez and those who were injured.

Pointing to the LBPD Detectives and Command Staff, Mayor Foster said, "I'm proud of the work that the ladies and gentlemen behind me do. I want to thank the Chief and the Detectives responsible...It just shows the follow-up dedication that this Department has."

The Mayor added that he wants to send the message that "if you do something wrong in this City, we're coming after you and you will be brought to justice."

Chief Batts said LBPD is "putting resources heavily into areas that have been traditionally problematic for us this time of year to prevent any further issues." Ask by a reporter if that meant putting more patrols into certain areas, or more officers assigned to Detective work, Chief Batts replied, "Yes. All of the above."