A 20-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the tragic shooting that claimed the life of 13-year-old Saith Mendez at a gas station in Pico Rivera. The heartbreaking incident occurred as Saith was waiting to meet his mother after her work shift, ending a young life full of promise in a senseless act of violence that has deeply shaken the community.
The Unthinkable Tragedy at a Pico Rivera Gas Station
On the night of August 23, Saith Mendez was patiently waiting at a 76 gas station in the 8800 block of Whittier Boulevard in Pico Rivera as his mother worked inside. Just before midnight, a man approached the young boy without any provocation. Without any exchange of words or prior confrontation, the suspect fired multiple gunshots at Saith, striking him in the back several times. The teen collapsed outside the station and was pronounced dead at the scene, shocking witnesses and the community alike.
Arrest of the Suspect: Andres Adan Chavez
Andres Adan Chavez, 20, was taken into custody by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department following a thorough investigation. Chavez, a convicted felon with a prior violent assault conviction in Kern County, reportedly shot Saith execution-style, firing multiple rounds even after the boy had fallen. Authorities described Chavez as armed and dangerous and thanked the public for their cooperation in tracking him down. The arrest brings some measure of relief but underscores the tragic loss.
The Investigation and Circumstances of the Shooting
Detectives revealed that the shooting was unprovoked and that no robbery or verbal altercation took place beforehand. Chavez reportedly exited a parked sedan and approached Saith as he was leaving the gas station, then opened fire. After the attack, Chavez fled on foot into a nearby residential area. Witnesses described a chilling scene where the gunman stood over the wounded boy, continuing to shoot until Saith succumbed to his injuries.
Remembering Saith Mendez
Family and friends remember Saith as a bright, loving boy who adored his mother and was fiercely protective of her, especially following the death of his father months earlier. Described as curious and shy but full of love, Saith was known for his love of basketball and video games and was looking forward to a future filled with potential. Family members have started a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses, highlighting the community’s collective grief and support.
Community Response and Call for Justice
The Pico Rivera community has been deeply affected by this young loss. City and law enforcement officials held a press conference condemning the cruel act and appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward. They stressed that such violence is unacceptable and emphasized the importance of keeping the suspect off the streets to prevent further tragedy. Residents are urged to report tips to authorities but to avoid direct confrontation with Chavez, who is considered highly dangerous.
Broader Context of Violence and Safety Concerns
This shooting is among several violent incidents recently reported in Pico Rivera, though it is not connected to another fatal shooting that occurred earlier the same week. The frequency of such events has raised concerns about public safety and the need for stronger crime prevention efforts in the area. Local leadership pledges continued support for law enforcement and community initiatives aimed at reducing gun violence and protecting vulnerable residents.
In summary, the arrest of Andres Chavez in the murder of 13-year-old Saith Mendez marks a critical step toward justice, but it cannot undo the profound grief felt by the family and community. The heartbreaking loss serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of gun violence on innocent lives and the urgent need for collective efforts to create safer neighborhoods.
