Most Wanted: Jose Hector Casas Sought in Connection to a Christmas Shooting

On the day after Christmas in 2001, police reports say that Jose Hector Casas killed a fellow gang member. Witnesses saw Casas sitting in the passenger seat of the victim's car at Hollywood Way and San Fernando Road, according to police.

Casas and the victim were already known to belong to the Toonerville street gang which mostly frequents the northeast of Los Angeles, Tujunga and Glendale.

The victim and Casas were visibly arguing according to witnesses. The victim was shot with a 9-mm. semi-automatic. The victim died of multiple gunshot wounds. Casas is said to have fled in his own car, a 1997 Ford F-150 pickup truck. The police found the pickup and impounded it.

Casas has not been seen since the crime. He is known to be in Mexico. In 2005, the North Hollywood homicide division received reports that Casas had returned to the area, but they were not able to confirm them.

The progress of this case illustrates how the LAPD can use continued reports to further a case. Even if the police cannot catch the suspect based on the report, it is safest for the public to leave it in their hands, says Det. Thomas Townsend, homicide detective assigned to North Hollywood division.

"Certainly don't contact the people," Townsend said. "If you have information of where a family member of a homicide suspect may be living or the suspect himself or herself, contact the Los Angeles Police Department here at North Hollywood division."

Casas can be recognized by a scar on his upper lip and tattoos. He is also known as Arturo Casas, Tito Casas and Hector Jose Casas.

"Don't attempt to do your own investigation," Townsend emphasized. "Don't contact them yourself. We have ways that we can identify who people are without ever having to go to the front door. Once we can compile some information, then we can begin our contact and interview process."

If you have any information on Jose Hector Casas, call  Det. Richard Wheeler in North Hollywood at 818-623-4075.

Suspect: Casas, Jose Hector

Alias: Casas, Hector Jose; Casas, Tito; Casas, Arturo;

Height: 5-foot, 11-inches

Weight: 200 pounds

Hair: Black

Eyes: Brown

Date of Birth: Nov 6, 1972

Weapon: 9mm semi-auto pistol

Oddities: Scar on upper lip, Tattoos

Wanted on charges of Murder

Victim: Unidentified

Date of Incident: Dec. 26, 2001

Place of Crime: Hollywood Way and San Fernando Road

 (This is part of a continuing series of stories of the Most Wanted Criminals of the North Hollywood Division of the Los Angeles Police Department. Click here for the previous stories.)