Real Estate Agent Killed in Home-Invasion Robbery Was Targeted: Police

A real estate agent who was killed during a home-invasion robbery in Downey Sunday was believed to be targeted by three suspects, police said.

The victim, identified by family as Jim Rudometkin, was found dead inside his home in the 10300 block of Lesterford Avenue after police responded to reports of a robbery in progress shortly after 11 a.m., according to the Downey Police Department.

Police said witnesses saw two suspects contact the homeowner near the side door and then forced him back into his home. A third suspect later entered home.

The suspects allegedly took property and ransacked the home before fleeing, police said.

Two of the suspects, identified as Henry Willie Sao, 28 years old, of Long Beach, and Paul Darvis Misikei, 19 years old, of Anaheim, were taken into custody.

A third suspect, believed to be approximately 17-years-old, was able to get away, prompting a search in the neighborhood.

Police confirmed no weapons were found at the scene and believe 59-year-old Rudometkin was specifically targeted. A cause of death has not yet been determined.

"We don't know why de died, that's the sad thing. We wish they would tell people," relatives said.

Family and friends described Rudometkin as a well-known real estate agent.

"I can't believe something like this would happen."

The suspect being sought was described as Pacific Islander or Asian with "bushy" hair, about 5 feet, 8 inches tall and weighing 160 pounds. He was seen last wearing an orange or red button-down shirt, blue jeans and black and white tennis shoes.

The incident is under investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Downey Police Department at (562) 904-2308.

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