On August 24, 2024, at approximately 11:35 p.m., 18-year-old Va’Afatu Mativa was fatally shot in Carson, California. The incident occurred in the 100 block of West 234th Street, where Mativa sustained a gunshot wound to the head. Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene at 11:50 p.m.
The same incident also claimed the life of 44-year-old Richard Mata, who suffered multiple gunshot wounds.
Investigations suggest that Mata, seated in his vehicle, fired shots that struck Mativa, who was standing nearby. In response, 22-year-old Raymond Maose allegedly returned fire, fatally wounding Mata. Mata's vehicle then rolled forward, colliding with a parked car in the 100 block of East 234th Street.
Authorities have arrested Maose in connection with the shootings, which are believed to be gang-related. The exact motive behind the altercation remains under investigation. Both Mativa and Mata were known to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department's gang unit as members of rival factions.
Va’Afatu Mativa was the nephew of singer-songwriter Tenelle Christine Luafalemana, who represented American Samoa in the American Song Contest in 2022. His death has deeply affected the local community, with many mourning the loss of a young life.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. They urge anyone with information to contact the LASD Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500 or provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477.
