Family and Detectives Work Together to Solve 1995 Cold Case Murder of South LA Teen
Family Seeks Justice 30 Years After Murder of Teen in South Los Angeles
The family of Ronnie Palmer Jr. remains in pursuit of justice nearly three decades after the tragic murder of the 15-year-old, who was shot while riding his bike home in South Los Angeles.
Ronald Palmer, the boy’s father, described the ongoing pain from the loss as unbearable. “It feels like yesterday,” he said. “I used to cry a lot, but I don’t cry anymore.”
On May 28, 1995, Palmer Jr. was tragically gunned down near West Boulevard and 58th Place as he returned home. LAPD Detective Ricardo Feria, who specializes in cold cases, noted that there were multiple rounds fired that day. “There were three murders on this block in that year, which speaks to the level of violence,” Feria remarked, highlighting the severity of crime during that period.
Over the past 30 years, Feria observed significant changes in the neighborhood. In 1995, the lack of surveillance cameras and the departure of witnesses have complicated the investigation. “My hope is that there’s someone out there whose memory of that day still lingers,” he said.
Palmer added that his family had recently moved into the area when the tragedy struck, and they soon left Los Angeles altogether. “We all was heartbroken,” he recounted.
Despite the lengthy passage of time, Ronald Palmer continues to hold onto hope, stating, “I pray every day, even at church, that they’ll catch him one day.” Acknowledging the potential that justice may not be served within his lifetime, he remains resolute.
The LAPD maintains the case as open, committed to pursuing justice for Ronnie Palmer Jr. The department emphasizes that this investigation demonstrates its ongoing efforts to solve unsolved crimes. Anyone with information regarding the case is encouraged to reach out to the LAPD’s Robbery-Homicide Division.
