Reward Offered For 'Armed And Dangerous' Suspect In South Bay Shootout

REDONDO BEACH — Police in the South Bay are asking for the public's help finding a man suspected of opening fire on Redondo Beach police officers who pulled him over on suspicion of driving under the influence.

According to the Redondo Beach Police Department, 35-year-old Lester Yohan Castro, of Hawthorne, shot at police officers during a traffic stop Feb, 21 before fleeing into a Hawthorne neighborhood. He is believed to be armed and dangerous. The department is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to his arrest.

"This is individual is dangerous and desperate. His actions demonstrate a total disregard for human life, for the public, for the safety of the public and for the rule of law," Redondo Beach Police Department Chief Joe Hoffman said at Tuesday press conference. "This type of cowardly act that we witnessed is a stark reminder of the worst among society — those who believe that they can act without consequences, harming others without remorse."

On the evening of Friday, Feb. 21, two Redondo Beach police officers were part of a South Bay DUI taskforce patrolling in Hawthorne when they pulled Castro over on his motorcycle.

Castro pulled over and fled on foot, according to Lt. Daniel Vizcarra of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, which is investigating the crash.

"Both officers initiated foot pursuit of Castro," Vizcarra. Castro produced a handgun and fired several rounds at the two officers. One officer returned fire."

Castro ran into the nearby neighborhood at 12800 block of Prairie Avenue. Police set up a perimeter and multiple agencies searched for Castro but were unable to find him. Castro's weapon was found at the scene, according to police.

"The extensive search and subsequent investigation caused road closures delays and uncertainty for many in the community," said Hoffman. "We sincerely appreciate their patience and cooperation during this challenging time."

Now, homicide investigators are asking for the public's help finding Castro.

"Although the firearm from used in this crime has been recovered. the suspect has already proven through his action that he is willing to take extreme measures," Hoffman said. "Even the smallest detail can be crucial in ensuring that justice is served. We need your help to prevent further violence and bring this individual to justice."

So far this year, eight officers nationwide have been killed by gunfire, Hoffman added.

"Each of these officers leave behind real grieving families, heartbroken families and a community that will forever feel their absence," he added. "Their sacrifices remind us of the risk that every officer takes each day to protect and serve their communities. We are very fortunate and grateful that the violent act against two Redondo Beach Police officers on February 21 did not add to the number of fallen law enforcement officers."

Anyone with information about the shooting or Castro is urged to call the Redondo Beach Police Department at 310-379-2477 or sheriff's Homicide investigators at 323-890-5500.