In the quiet neighborhood of South Gate, California a tragedy unfolded that would leave a community in shock and a family devastated. Hector Ascencio Sr., 57, was fatally shot in front of his home on the 2500 block of Glenwood Place on the evening of September 16, 2023. His 10-year-old granddaughter witnessed the incident.
Ascencio was at home, where one should feel safest, holding his granddaughter’s hand when an unexpected knock on the door changed their lives forever. Upon opening the door, he was met with gunfire, and the assailant quickly fled the scene in a dark-colored 4-door vehicle, leaving behind a scene of despair and unanswered questions.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, in concert with the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors and the City of South Gate, has recently announced a $30,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the perpetrator(s). This reward comprises $20,000 from the County and $10,000 from the City, demonstrating the gravity with which the authorities treat this case.
Supervisor Janice Hahn, who played a pivotal role in establishing the county’s portion of the reward, expressed her horror at the circumstances of Ascencio’s death. “Hector was in his own home with his family when someone savagely took his life. His granddaughter watched Hector die,” Hahn stated, emphasizing the urgency of bringing the culprits to justice.
Despite the significant reward and calls for public help, the investigation has struggled to progress. It has been six months since the incident, yet no suspects have been apprehended. This lack of closure has intensified the anguish of the family, who mourn the unfathomable loss of a relative described as generous and without adversaries. “If anyone witnessed anything or was nearby, please come forward. It’s unjust. Why would they shoot him? He merely answered the door, and just like that, he was gone,” implored Andy Ascencio, a son of Hector Ascencio Sr.
The family’s bewilderment echoes a sentiment felt by many who knew Ascencio – a disbelief that such a fate could befall a man described as always nice to people. The motive behind the murder remains a mystery, further complicating the investigative efforts and leaving a community on edge.
Authorities continue to seek any information that could lead to a breakthrough in the case. Detectives Esteban Soliz and Mike Rivas of the Sheriff’s Department Homicide Bureau have been assigned to lead the investigation, urging anyone with knowledge of the incident to come forward.
