July 10, 2020
Statement from Chief Medical Examiner-Coroner Dr. Jonathan Lucas:
After careful thought and deliberation, I am releasing the autopsy report of Andres Guardado Pineda. In doing so, I have given careful consideration to the major variables in this case – supporting the administration of justice, as well as the public’s right to know. I do not believe that these are mutually exclusive ideals. Both are important, particularly amid the ongoing national discussion about race, policing and civil rights. I believe that government can do its part by being more timely and more transparent in sharing information that the public demands and has a right to see.
The cause of death for an 18-year-old man killed in Gardena last month is multiple gunshot wounds, the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner-Coroner has determined.
On the evening of June 18, Andres Guardado Pineda was shot in an officer-involved shooting located in the 400 block of West Redondo Beach Boulevard in Gardena.
Paramedics were called to the location and Guardado Pineda was pronounced dead at the scene at 6:01 p.m.
After the scene investigation, Guardado Pineda’s body was transported to the department's Forensic Science Center for examination.
On June 22, the deputy medical examiner completed a full autopsy on the decedent. Following the completion and receipt of relevant test results, the cause of death was certified on July 7 as multiple gunshot wounds. The manner of death was certified as homicide.
The coroner case number for Guardado Pineda is 2020-05405. To request the coroner’s report, email pio@coroner.lacounty.gov.
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About LA County Dept. of Medical Examiner-Coroner
The Department of Medical Examiner-Coroner investigates and determines the circumstances, manner and cause of all violent, sudden or unusual deaths occurring within Los Angeles County, including the City of Los Angeles, 87 other municipalities, and its unincorporated areas.
The department is a neutral and independent office and is separate from any law enforcement agency in Los Angeles County. The department’s mission is to provide independent, quality, death investigation using advanced forensic science with compassion and objectivity for families, communities, and public health & safety, as well as to work collaboratively to reduce preventable deaths.
Media Contact:
Sarah Ardalani
Public Information Officer
(323) 343-0783
sardalani@coroner.lacounty.gov
Follow the department's official Twitter page @lacountymec.