Arrest Made in 2011 Killing of Transgender Woman

A 51-year-old man believed to be the so-called Western Bandit suspected in a string of violent crimes along a stretch of Western Avenue from Hollywood to South Los Angeles was in custody today.

Details of the arrest were expected to be released this afternoon by Los Angeles police Chief Charlie Beck and Mayor Eric Garcetti. The suspect was identified by police as Patrick Watkins.

Detectives earlier said the suspect may have been responsible for one killing, as well as a number of armed robberies since November of 2011.

The crimes occurred in convenience stores and other businesses, generally between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m., along an eight-mile stretch of Western Avenue, according to police.

Police had described the suspect as “very violent” and “quick to use a firearm.” He was believed to have generally worn dark clothing and was often seen riding a bicycle.

Police said earlier this Western Bandit was believed to have been involved in the November 2011, shooting death of Nathan “Cassidy” Vickers, a 32-year-old transgender woman, near Lexington Avenue and Gower Street.

City News Service