Reward offered to help resolve hiker’s murder

Los Angeles, California – Authorities offered a reward of up to $50,000 on Wednesday in the hopes of solving the murder of a man who was shot while hiking in Ernest E. Debs Regional Park in September.

The 29-year-old, Jason Cortez, was shot on a trail inside the park around 3:30 p.m. on Sept. 10 and died at the scene, according to City Councilman Gil Cedillo. The Los Angeles County coroner’s office identified the victim as Jason Cortez from Virginia.

“A witness came forward who provided a sketch of a suspect he saw in the bushes holding a rifle. A thorough canvass of the area has resulted in no new leads, and as of this date, no new witnesses have provided information. We need help from community members in identifying the suspect of this horrible murder,” Cedillo said in a statement.

Authorities will reveal the sketch during a press conference on Friday, when they will publicize the reward and ask for assistance in solving the crime, according to Cedillo.

The Los Angeles City Council offered the award. If anyone has information regarding the case, please contact Detective Alex Abundis at 213-486-8700. Anonymous tips can be made to Crime Stoppers by dialing 800-222-TIPS or visiting www.lacrimestoppers.org.