Pair Found Slain in Apartment Identified

A couple found slain in the living room of their apartment have been identified as Luciano Santiago Carlos Jr., 36, and Sheila Ann Miranda, 29, the coroner’s office said Thursday.

Although police ruled out robbery and burglary, the motive remained unclear and no suspects had been arrested, said Det. Frank Bishop of the Los Angeles Police Department.

Paul Amado, manager of the apartment in the 8600 block of Snowden Avenue, was among the first to find the victims in their unlocked apartment Wednesday. He said both were shot in the head.

Los Angeles County Superior Court records show that Carlos pleaded guilty in 1995 to possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Bishop would not discuss whether police believe the couple’s deaths are drug-related.

Neighbors said the couple had visitors at all hours, and Amado said Miranda often sold retail items from the apartment, including gift baskets, foot-powered scooters and new tires.

“She always said, ‘My boyfriend can get you this, my boyfriend can get you that,’ ” Amado said.

Police received an anonymous call at 1 a.m. Wednesday reporting a slaying in the building, but they found no evidence of a crime, and the bodies were not discovered until 9 a.m.

Police have asked witnesses to call (818) 834-3115 with information.