Murder Suspect Arrested In Shooting Of South Bay Man

HAWTHORNE, CA — A 24-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of a Hawthorne man in North Long Beach in March, police announced Tuesday.

Compton resident Malik Cooper was taken into custody Monday on suspicion of murder in the slaying of 52-year-old Alejandro Calderon, according to the Long Beach Police Department.

Police say Calderon was shot around 3:49 a.m. in the 5400 block of Atlantic Avenue on March 17. He was taken to a local hospital, where he died from his injuries, according to the LBPD.

It's not yet clear what led up to the shooting, but detectives identified Cooper as a suspect and obtained a warrant for his arrest, police said.

Authorities later located Cooper during a traffic stop in Compton, according to police. His bail was set at $2 million, police said.

Detectives will present the case to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office, which will consider whether there is enough evidence to file charges against Cooper.

The LBPD asks that anyone with more information related to the fatal shooting contact detectives at 562-570-7244. Those who which to remain anonymous may submit tips through "LA Crime Stoppers" by calling 800-222-TIPS (8477), downloading the "P3 Tips" app to your smartphone (available at the Apple app store or Google Play), or by visiting www.lacrimestoppers.org.