Five shot dead at homeless encampment
Susie Latweeka, left, is comforted by cousin Fiaora Tuitasi near the location in Long Beach where Latweeka’s mother, Vanessa Malaepule, was found shot to death along with four others. The five were found in a brush-shrouded area next to the Santa Fe Avenue offramp on the 405 Freeway in Long Beach. Authorities described the site as a homeless encampment. Relatives say Malaepule wasn’t homeless, just visiting a friend. (Mark Boster /Los Angeles Times)
A framed portrait of Malaepule, along with candles and flowers, marks the spot where the woman and four others were found shot to death. The investigation into the deaths is continuing. (Mark Boster /Los Angeles Times)
Latweeka’s hands bear written sentiments about her slain mother. (Mark Boster /Los Angeles Times)
On Monday,
