Azusa, California – Two people were killed and eight others were wounded in a shooting at a New Year’s Eve party in downtown Los Angeles. The shooting occurred at a warehouse around 1 a.m. at a party that has been described as “underground.”
The victim’s family is now speaking out in the wake of the tragedy. Miah Banks, a 26-year-old hairstylist from Azusa, was one of the victims. Her best friend, Lanise Harris, described the harrowing moment when the shooting started, recounting how she tried to save Banks while also being shot in the hand.
Banks’ mother, Markesha Cummings, expressed the devastation and shock at losing her daughter to such a senseless act of violence. Banks leaves behind an 8-year-old daughter, and her family is grappling with the difficult task of explaining her mother’s death.
The tragedy is compounded by the fact that Banks’ sister was released from prison just hours before the shooting. The family is left heartbroken and struggling to come to terms with their loss.
Authorities have yet to apprehend any suspects in connection with the shooting, leaving the community and the victims’ families searching for answers and justice. The LAPD has urged anyone with information about the shooting to come forward to help with the ongoing investigation.
This incident marks the first mass shooting of 2024, as reported by the Gun Violence Archive. The community is left mourning and grappling with the aftermath of this tragic event, while law enforcement continues to pursue leads to bring those responsible to justice.