Authorities Monday sought public help to find a gunman who killed a man in what authorities called a random shooting outside a bar in Van Nuys.
Julio Rodriguez, 33, died at the scene around 11:20 p.m. Sunday in the 15200 block of Victory Boulevard, according to the coroner's office.
Surveillance footage from outside the Carlito's Way bar captured the shooting and authorities released a photo of the attacker in hopes the public can identify the gunman.
"The guy walked up to him, put the gun to his chest and pulled the trigger," the victim's brother Eric Rodriguez said. "He's a good man. He didn't deserve this."
Julio Rodriguez was at the bar consoling a friend who was going through a difficult time. Rodriguez stepped outside when the gunman opened fire on the victim and his friend.
His friend survived and was treated at a hospital then later released, said Los Angeles Police Officer Tony Im.
Family members of the victim recalled Julio Rodriguez as a diligent man who loved his 12-year-old son. He worked as an electrician and was trying to open his own business.
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"My brother wasn't in a gang," Eric Rodriguez said. "He was a hard-working man."
The bar's owner, Carlos Castellanos, is cooperating with authorities and submitted all relevant surveillance that may help identify the shooter.
"I want to do what I can to help out," Castellanos said.
Earlier, employees at the bar refused to serve the gunman, according to investigators. He appeared to be under the influence of drugs or already intoxicated, Castellanos said.
A motive for the shooting was not known, Im said.
Anyone with information on the case is urged to call (877) LAPD-247.
