Sheriff’s explorer slain in drive-by shooting in Whittier

WHITTIER, Calif. (KABC) – One of the victims of a drive-by shooting in Whittier on Sunday was a volunteer in the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Explorer program.

Cesar Rodriguez, 19, and a friend were standing in front of a home in the 11800 block of Painter Avenue about 3:10 a.m. when they were gunned down. Both men died at the scene.

Witnesses say the driver of a gray Scion fired several shots at them.

The other victim was identified as 24-year-old Larry Villegas.

Investigators say the car, carrying three or four people, fled northbound on Painter Avenue.

Rodriguez had been a volunteer in the Explorers program for four years.

“This was his lifelong dream to become a deputy sheriff,” said Sheriff’s Capt. Patrick Maxwell of Rodriguez. “He was preparing himself to do that and was making the right choices in life.”

Anyone with information is asked to call (323) 890-5500.

http://abclocal.go.com/kabc/story?section=news%2Flocal%2Flos_angeles&id=8332560&cmp=twi-kabc-article-8332560

Newport Beach Lifeguards’ Blood Drive a Success

Eighty units of blood were collected at the drive.

More than 100 people attended the 26th annual Newport Beach Lifeguards’ Blood Drive Wednesday at the Newport Pier.

Jennifer Schulz, spokeswoman for the Newport Beach Fire Department, said that 80 units of blood were collected and that the event had “a great turnout.”

Blood collected from the drive is used daily to treat patients undergoing surgery, those with cancer, burn patients, auto accident patients and many more. Blood donations cannot be stockpiled, with the shelf life ranging from a few hours for some cells to 42 days for others. Blood donations must be made on a regular basis in order to maintain an adequate supply in the community