Rising Gun and Gang Violence in Long Beach: Recent Homicide Adds to Growing Concern

LONG BEACH, CA — A deadly shooting in Long Beach on February 16, 2025, has once again highlighted the persistent issue of gang and gun violence plaguing the city. The latest incident, which occurred in broad daylight, left one man dead and another injured, further raising concerns among residents and law enforcement about escalating gang-related crime.

At approximately 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Long Beach police officers responded to a shots-fired call in the 1700 block of Long Beach Boulevard. Upon arrival, officers found evidence of a shooting but no immediate victims at the scene. Shortly after, authorities were notified that two male victims suffering from gunshot wounds had been dropped off at a local hospital. One of the victims, identified as Edgar Ortiz-Escamilla, a 32-year-old Long Beach resident, later succumbed to his injuries. The second victim, whose identity has not been released, is in stable condition.

According to Long Beach homicide detectives, the shooting is believed to be gang-related, though the motive and circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation. Police have not announced any arrests or identified any suspects. The killing of Ortiz-Escamilla adds to a troubling pattern of gun-related violence in Long Beach, where gang activity continues to drive homicides and shootings. Law enforcement officials have long battled gang-related crime in the city, but a recent uptick in gun violence has left communities on edge.

According to Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) data, the city has seen a rise in gang-related shootings over the past year, with many incidents occurring in broad daylight and in high-traffic areas. Residents and business owners near Long Beach Boulevard have expressed concerns over safety, urging city officials to take more aggressive action against gang violence. “It’s terrifying to think that someone could be shot just down the street in the middle of the afternoon,” said one local resident, who wished to remain anonymous. “We need more police presence and tougher consequences for those committing these crimes.”

In response to the growing violence, the Long Beach Police Department has ramped up gang suppression efforts, increasing patrols in high-crime areas and working with community organizations to address the root causes of gang involvement. Additionally, the city has launched several initiatives aimed at preventing youth from joining gangs, including mentorship programs, job training, and outreach efforts. However, some residents and activists argue that more needs to be done. Community leaders have called for more investment in crime prevention programs, mental health services, and economic opportunities to deter gang activity. Others have urged lawmakers to implement stricter gun control measures to prevent firearms from getting into the hands of violent offenders.

As homicide detectives continue their investigation, authorities are urging anyone with information about the February 16 shooting to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously through LA Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or via the Long Beach Police Department’s website. Ortiz-Escamilla’s death serves as another grim reminder of the ongoing gang violence in Long Beach. As the community grapples with this latest tragedy, residents and officials alike remain hopeful that increased efforts will help curb the cycle of violence and bring justice to those affected.

Anyone with information about the shooting is urged to contact Long Beach Homicide Detectives at (562) 570-7244.