Authorities Identify Victim in South Gate Tattoo Parlor Shooting

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County authorities have identified Erik Herrera, 32, as the man who was found dead inside Kokopelli Ink Tattoo & Piercings, on the 4200 block of Tweedy Boulevard in South Gate.

The shooting occurred at around 11:30 a.m. on Sunday, according to Deputy Mark Pope of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. Investigators have yet to release any information as to the circumstances that led to the homicide. 

No witnesses have come forward with clues on this homicide. 

Herrera, who worked as a tatto artist at Kokopelli Ink, died after sustaining several gunshot wounds, said Coroner’s Assistant Chief Ed Winter, according to City News Service.

Outside of the main entrance to the tattoo parlor, a small vigil with candles has been made to honor Herrera . At around half past noon, people present at the vigil were visibly upset, and refused to be interviewed when asked by Patch. 

However, Susana Murillo, who co-owns Kokopelli Ink Tattoo & Piercings with her husband, Gabriel Juray,  was overwhelmed with grief during a phone interview with Patch.

"[Herrera's] smile and talent will always be missed around here," said Murillo, who added that Kokopelli's staff is in shock over the incident. "He loved tatooing and was very good at it." 

Murillo also told Patch that Herrera was a good family man, who is leaving behind a wife and two children. 

"He was a really good father and loved being with his family," said Murillo. "He was also extremely close to his parents."

Friends and family will be hosting a rosary ceremony in front of Kokopelli Ink at 8:00 p.m. in honor of Herrera. Those who wish to lend their support  are encouraged to attend. 

Murillo also told Patch that a weekend car-wash fundraiser for Herrera's children is also being planned. The details of which will be released shortly. 

Anyone with information on this homicide is encouraged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department's Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500. Those who wish to provide a written tip can also do so by submitting it to http://lacrimestoppers.org. You may also text the letters TIPLA along with the tip to CRIMES (274637). 

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