Michael Mark Lowe, a 43-year-old resident of Monrovia, California, tragically lost his life on December 1, 2017, due to gunshot wounds. The incident occurred at the Gem City Grill, located on East Olive Avenue in Monrovia. On the night of the shooting, Lowe and a friend were at the bar when four individuals from a rival gang entered the establishment. An argument ensued between Lowe, his friend, and the newcomers, which quickly escalated into a violent confrontation.
The altercation culminated in one of the rival gang members opening fire, striking Lowe, his friend, and another patron. While Lowe's friend and the other patron survived their injuries, Lowe was pronounced dead at the hospital shortly after midnight on December 2, 2017.
The investigation into Lowe's death led to the identification and arrest of several suspects. Erika Torres, a 33-year-old Latina, and William LaCroix Jr., a 34-year-old Latino, were apprehended on the night of the shooting as they attempted to flee the scene. Warrants were subsequently issued for Jeremiah LaCroix, 31, who was identified as the shooter, and Al Corro, 33, another accomplice. Jeremiah LaCroix turned himself in to authorities at the Larry Smith Detention Center in Banning on December 31, 2017. Details regarding Corro's apprehension were not immediately available.
The suspects faced serious charges in connection with the shooting. Torres and the LaCroix brothers were charged with murder and four counts of attempted murder on December 5, 2017. Corro faced similar charges on January 12, 2018. All four suspects pleaded not guilty to the charges. Additionally, four other individuals were charged with aiding Jeremiah LaCroix and Corro in evading capture. Ana Guerrero and William LaCroix Sr., the parents of the LaCroix brothers, were charged on December 21, 2017, while Jacob Craig Webb and Vanessa Michelle Gomez faced charges on January 12, 2018. These individuals also pleaded not guilty.
The case garnered significant attention, with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department urging anyone with information to come forward. The next court appearance for all eight defendants was scheduled for February 15, 2018, at the Los Angeles County Superior Court Pasadena Courthouse. The community of Monrovia was left reeling from the violence, and an online fundraiser was established to support Lowe's two children and cover burial costs. The tragic death of Michael Mark Lowe highlighted the ongoing issue of gang violence in the area and the devastating impact it can have on families and communities.
