Tragic Death: Man Confronts Shoplifters in L.A., Fatally Injured

Los Angeles(Thechieftainspear) – Authorities are investigating the death of a 60-year-old man who was killed after confronting a group of thieves in a South El Monte shopping center parking lot on Wednesday afternoon.

The victim, identified as Kourosh “Steve” Yaghoubi, had been assisting at his brother’s store, Giant Discount, located on the 2000 block of Durfee Avenue, when several individuals entered the business and stole a box of disposable face masks around 12:20 p.m.

Witnesses say Yaghoubi pursued the suspects into the parking lot in an attempt to recover the stolen goods. During the confrontation, the suspects allegedly attacked him, delivering a blow to his head that caused him to collapse. As he lay on the ground, the group’s vehicle reportedly ran him over as they fled the scene.

Paramedics arrived but were unable to save him. Yaghoubi was pronounced dead at the scene.

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The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has confirmed the death is tied to the shoplifting incident, though they have not yet officially labeled it a homicide. Detectives spent much of the day and evening at the scene, knocking on doors and speaking with potential witnesses as part of the investigation.

Lt. Michael Modica, the lead investigator, said plainclothes deputies are also working to gather surveillance footage from the surrounding businesses.

Yaghoubi’s brother, John, remained at the scene for much of the day, visibly shaken. He shared that the family has endured repeated heartbreak over the years.

“I lost my older brother four years ago,” John said. “My mother is 94 and still grieving him. I don’t know how I’ll break this news to her.”

As of now, the Sheriff’s Department has not released any descriptions of the suspects or the vehicle involved. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the LASD Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500. Anonymous tips can also be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS or visiting lacrimestoppers.org.

The investigation remains ongoing.

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Lailyah Duncan

Lailyah Duncan is an insightful writer at The Chieftain Spear, where she explores themes of culture, resilience, and community through compelling storytelling. Passionate about bringing diverse perspectives to light, Lailyah's work reflects a deep commitment to empowering voices and fostering meaningful conversations. With a talent for weaving narrative and purpose, she continues to inspire her readers with thought-provoking articles that celebrate heritage and advocate for positive change.

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