Authorities have identified the man who was fatally shot during a Halloween night party in the Newhall area as 29-year-old Elijah Harts, a local barber known and loved within the community.
The shooting occurred late Friday night in the 25000 block of De Wolfe Road in the Gavin Canyon area. Deputies with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department responded around 11:15 p.m. after reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, officers found two men suffering from gunshot wounds.
Harts was pronounced dead at the scene. A second victim, a 27-year-old man, was rushed to the hospital and remains in critical condition, according to officials.
Investigators believe the shooting stemmed from a fight that broke out during a Halloween party, leading to gunfire. Witnesses reported seeing two male suspects fleeing the area immediately after the shooting.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau continues to investigate and is urging anyone with information to contact detectives at (323) 890-5500 or provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.
Friends and family have since gathered online to honor Harts, describing him as a hardworking and kind individual whose loss has deeply affected the Santa Clarita community.