Craig Cooper, 53
February 15, 2008 | 5:34
pm
Craig Cooper, a 53-year-old black man, was killed in a drive-by shooting at 1926 W. Jefferson Blvd in Jefferson Park at about 10:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 12. According to police, Cooper was walking on the sidewalk when a white vehicle heading eastbound on Jefferson Boulevard pulled up next to him. Someone inside opened fire, striking Cooper several times. The car continued east, then headed north on St. Andrews Place. Cooper was taken to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 11:08 p.m. Anyone with information can call (213) 485-1383.
(You have reached the end of the weekly listing of homicide victims in Los Angeles County, Feb. 11 to 18, 2008.)
Craig Cooper was a good guy. He was also my cousin. I have known him since he was little. Craig grew up in the neighborhood, attended Holy Name of Jesus Catholic School; ironically, the school is less than half a block from where he died. He served his country in Vietnam and returned with a honorable discharge. Like many Vietnam vets, he also returned with the scars of battle and warfare. Psychological wounds heal only slowly if at all. Craig never gave up. As often as he suffered setbbacks, that was as often as he got up to try again. He didn't quit. He was never a gang banger. On the one hand, we have the little cowards who shot him; and on the other hand, we have, what else to call them, cowardly citizens that will not help bring his killers to justice. Craig Cooper was a good guy who deserves better from all of us.
Posted by: Weskey Profit | February 21, 2008 at 02:22 PM
When are the citizens of LA going to finally say they had enough of all the worthless violence and declare war on all the gang scum taking over the city? Another senseless death.......
Posted by: Matt R | March 10, 2008 at 03:32 PM