17-year-old Arrested in Shooting Death of 12-year-old Rodrigo Emiliano Martinez at Compton’s Fig/Oleander Park
Suspect Faces Murder Charge for the Tragic Killing of Young Boy in Broad Daylight Incident

COMPTON, Calif. – A 17-year-old male has been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of 12-year-old Rodrigo Emiliano Martinez, who tragically lost his life on Friday afternoon at Compton’s Fig/Oleander Park, according to a statement from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) issued on Sunday. The suspect, whose identity is being withheld due to his age, faces a murder charge in connection with the shocking incident that took place just before 4:00 p.m. on May 9, 2025.

Rodrigo, a young boy with a bright future ahead of him, was found by responding deputies suffering from gunshot wounds after an assailant dressed in black clothing and a ski mask approached him and opened fire. Despite quick efforts to rush Rodrigo to a nearby hospital, he was later pronounced dead. Authorities have yet to establish a motive for the attack, leaving the community in shock and mourning as they await answers to this senseless crime. As the investigation continues, law enforcement officials urge anyone with information to come forward and help solve the case.

The Incident: A Day of Tragedy

The fatal shooting of Rodrigo Martinez occurred in broad daylight at Oleander Park, located in the 400 block of West Figueroa Street in Compton. This neighborhood, typically bustling with children enjoying the outdoors and families spending time together, was abruptly shattered by the sound of gunfire just before 4:00 p.m. on that fateful Friday afternoon.

Witnesses reported seeing a figure in black clothing, with a ski mask obscuring their face, approach the park on foot. The assailant then pulled out a firearm and opened fire on Rodrigo, striking the 12-year-old before fleeing the scene in an unknown direction. According to LASD, deputies responded swiftly to the scene after receiving reports of gunshots, arriving to find the young victim on the ground, bleeding from the gunshot wounds.

Rodrigo Emiliano Martinez, who had been enjoying an afternoon at the park like many other children in the community, was immediately transported to a nearby hospital. Tragically, despite all efforts to save him, he was later pronounced dead from the injuries he sustained during the shooting. The tragic loss of such a young life has left the local community reeling and devastated.

The Arrest of a 17-Year-Old Suspect

As law enforcement continued their investigation, focusing on the scant details available, they were able to apprehend a 17-year-old male, whose name has not been released due to his age. The young suspect was taken into custody on the charges of murder and is expected to face further legal proceedings.

While authorities have not disclosed the exact circumstances that led to the arrest, they did confirm that the suspect is believed to be directly involved in the fatal shooting. No clear motive has yet been identified, and investigators are still piecing together the details of the case to understand what led to this tragic loss of life.

This arrest has provided some closure to the Martinez family, although the pain of losing their son at such a young age remains immeasurable. The entire Compton community is also left with an overwhelming sense of grief, struggling to understand the reasons behind such senseless violence.

Authorities Seek to Unravel the Motive

At this time, law enforcement officials have not disclosed whether Rodrigo Martinez was specifically targeted or if the shooting was a random act of violence. The investigation into the motive remains ongoing, and authorities are keeping all options open. While a variety of theories have circulated within the community, investigators have been tight-lipped about their findings, urging the public to remain patient as they work to piece together the facts.

What is clear is the shocking nature of the crime. The decision to shoot a 12-year-old child in the middle of the day, in a public park, where families often congregate, has left residents in disbelief. The local community, known for its close-knit nature, has rallied together to mourn the loss of Rodrigo and demand justice for the young boy whose life was tragically cut short.

In the aftermath of the shooting, local residents have expressed frustration with the rising violence in their neighborhoods. Many have pointed to the need for greater attention to public safety, with a call for more resources to prevent such tragedies in the future. As Compton grapples with this devastating loss, discussions about violence prevention, community outreach, and the importance of keeping children safe have taken center stage.

The Community’s Response

In the wake of Rodrigo’s death, members of the Compton community have come together in grief and solidarity. Local leaders, activists, and residents have organized vigils and memorials to honor the young victim and show support for his family. These gatherings have been an emotional release for many who feel deeply affected by the senseless violence.

Rodrigo Emiliano Martinez, described by those who knew him as a kind and loving child, is remembered not only for his untimely death but also for the potential he represented. A student with dreams of a bright future, Rodrigo had his whole life ahead of him. His death has sparked conversations among families and youth advocates about the need for better resources, programs, and opportunities for young people in areas prone to violence.

At the heart of these discussions is the devastating question: why was a 12-year-old boy targeted in such a manner? And what can be done to prevent this from happening again to others in the community?

Law Enforcement’s Call for Information

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department continues to urge anyone with information regarding the shooting of Rodrigo Emiliano Martinez to come forward. In a statement, LASD emphasized that all tips and leads are critical to the ongoing investigation, particularly in light of the few details available about the suspect’s identity and the motive behind the shooting.

The LASD has set up multiple avenues for the public to submit information. Anyone with knowledge of the incident is encouraged to contact the Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500. Those who wish to remain anonymous can use Crime Stoppers, either by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or visiting the Crime Stoppers website at lacrimestoppers.org.

Authorities are particularly interested in speaking with anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or seen any suspicious activity in the area around the time of the incident. Even the smallest piece of information could be pivotal in solving the case and bringing justice for Rodrigo Emiliano Martinez.

The Legal Process and Next Steps

As the investigation continues, the legal process will unfold, and the 17-year-old suspect faces serious charges. Murder charges carry significant consequences, and if convicted, the suspect could face long-term consequences, including possible time in juvenile detention or adult prison, depending on the nature of the case and the legal arguments presented.

Given the age of the suspect, questions about the criminal justice system’s handling of minors involved in violent crimes may arise. The case will likely spark debates about juvenile justice reform, the impact of childhood trauma, and how society can address violence among young people.

Looking Ahead: A Call for Justice and Healing

The killing of Rodrigo Emiliano Martinez has left an indelible mark on Compton. His death represents not only the tragic loss of a young life but also the ongoing struggle with violence that too many communities across the country are grappling with. As authorities work tirelessly to bring the responsible party to justice, the community remains united in its grief and its call for change.

In the days ahead, the focus will remain on seeking justice for Rodrigo Emiliano Martinez, finding the motive behind this heinous act, and ensuring that such violence is prevented in the future. For the Martinez family, this journey is one no parent should ever have to endure—the loss of a child to senseless violence. But for the community, it’s a call to action, to address the underlying issues of violence, to protect their children, and to bring peace to a place where, sadly, it seems to be in short supply.