Southeast : KILLERS SOUGHT

The recent slaying of a popular liquor store clerk in Lakewood shocked many in the community, and officials are offering a $25,000 reward for information leading to his killers’ arrest and conviction.

Huntington Beach resident Gary Son, 51, described by one official as a “beloved figure in the neighborhood,” was shot Sept. 19 about 10 p.m. in an apparent robbery attempt.

After the shooting, two suspects wearing ski masks and gloves fled from 100 Proof Liquor on the 5600 block of East South Street, police said.

Son died after he was rushed to a hospital.

The Lakewood City Council approved the reward this week, and officials are optimistic that the incentive will help police nab the suspects, whom they described only as two black men.

“For criminals who might rob a convenience store for a couple hundred bucks, a $25,000 reward might be enough to turn in one of their colleagues-in-crime,” said Don Waldie, the city’s public information officer. “There is no honor among thieves.”