17-year-old shot and killed in Koreatown robbery attempt, triggering search for suspect

KOREATOWN, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- A 17-year-old who was shot and killed in a robbery attempt in Koreatown is being remembered as a funny boy who had dreams of becoming an electrician after high school.

The shooting happened on 7th Street, between Berendo Street and New Hampshire Avenue, around 10:30 p.m. Tuesday, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department.

The victim has been identified as Dylan Ramirez of Los Angeles.

"He still had a lot of life left and a lot of plans," said Alejandro Castro, the victim's brother.

Dylan's family says he wanted to be an electrician after high school. Castro says they grew up without a dad, so he assumed the role of being a father figure to his brother.

"I wish I was more patient with him and kinda listened to him more," Castro told Eyewitness News. "He was a pretty funny dude. I wish I was more of a brother to him than a father."

The shooting happened when Dylan was in a car with his friend. Police say another man approached them with a gun. That's when the suspect attempted to rob them. When they refused to hand over their belongings, the suspect opened fire and shot the 17-year-old passenger in the head.

The driver took off and flagged down officers outside a 7-Eleven on West Olympic Boulevard in the Pico-Union neighborhood. He was attempting to take Dylan to the hospital, but never made it.

Officers attempted to render medical aid, but the teen boy was pronounced dead at the scene.

The suspect remains at large. A description was not available.

Dylan's family has set up a GoFundMe page to help with funeral expenses.