A birthday celebration in Los Angeles turned into a heartbreaking tragedy after a 26-year-old father was shot and killed while trying to stop a fight between two women at a popular neighborhood pizza restaurant.
Family members say what should have been one of the happiest nights of his life ended in unimaginable violence. Police are now searching for the gunman, who remains on the run as the community mourns the loss of a young father taken far too soon.
California Birthday Celebration Ends in Fatal Shooting
Authorities in Los Angeles are investigating a deadly shooting that claimed the life of Andres Castellas, 26, on Saturday night.
According to police, Castellas was celebrating his 26th birthday with family and friends when the shooting happened.
The incident took place at Red West Pizza in Wilmington, a neighborhood in Los Angeles, California.
Family members say Castellas was:
- Celebrating his birthday
- Surrounded by loved ones
- Enjoying a family gathering
- Creating happy memories before tragedy struck
Fight Between Two Women Led to Chaos
According to investigators, the violence began when two women reportedly started fighting inside the popular pizza restaurant.
Witnesses say the situation quickly became chaotic.
Police say Castellas stepped in, attempting to break up the fight and restore calm.
Authorities believe he was simply trying to help.
Good Samaritan Shot While Trying to Help
Investigators say as Castellas attempted to stop the altercation, a man suddenly pulled out a firearm.
Police say the suspect opened fire, striking:
- Andres Castellas
- A male restaurant employee in his 20s
The shooting shocked customers and staff inside the restaurant.
Victim Died at the Scene
Emergency responders rushed to the restaurant after reports of gunfire.
According to police:
| Victim | Condition |
|---|---|
| Andres Castellas, 26 | Pronounced dead at scene |
| Restaurant employee | Hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries |
Authorities confirmed Castellas could not be saved.
Family Says He Was an Innocent Victim
Loved ones described Castellas as a caring father whose only mistake was trying to help others.
A fundraiser created for his family described the heartbreaking moment.
According to the family, Castellas was:
- A loving father
- A devoted family man
- Celebrating his special day
- Innocently caught in violence
Family members say he did not deserve such a tragic ending.
Suspect Still on the Run
Los Angeles police say the gunman fled the scene immediately after opening fire.
As of now, no arrest has been announced.
Investigators described the suspect as:
- Hispanic male
- Approximately 20 to 25 years old
Police continue searching for the shooter.
Community in Shock After Restaurant Shooting
The shooting has deeply affected residents in Wilmington.
Locals say Red West Pizza has long been a family-friendly gathering place in the community.
Many residents expressed fear after learning gun violence broke out in such a popular neighborhood spot.
Community members say families and children regularly visit the restaurant.
Investigation Continues
Police are actively gathering surveillance footage, witness statements, and forensic evidence.
Investigators are asking anyone with information about the suspect or the shooting to contact Los Angeles authorities.
No motive has been officially confirmed.
