Driver's Shooting Death Might Be Case of Mistaken Identity

Tauruson McMillian, 34, was shot and killed as he drove his red SS Monte Carlo through Compton in January

Investigators seeking information in the case of a Pasadena city worker who was shot and killed as he drove his car in Compton have announced a reward in what they described as a case of mistaken identity.

The city of Compton and the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors are offering a $20,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction in the Jan. 4 shooting death of Tauruson McMillian. The 34-year-old city of Pasadena employee was driving a red SS Monte Carlo just before 7 p.m. on Wilmington Avenue near Rosecrans Avenue when he was shot and killed.

He suffered multiple gunshot wounds, according to investigators. McMillian died at the scene.

Witnesses reported the sound of gunfire before seeing the car crash into a fence at Wilmington Avenue and Cressey Street. Detectives said they believe McMillian, who was visiting a friend in the neighborhood, was shot because he was driving a red vehicle, which might have led the gunman to believe the occupant was part of a rival gang, according to investigators.

"This may be a case of possible mistaken identity," said Lt. John Carina. "Our investigation hasn't revealed any obvious signs why anyone would want to target Mr. McMillian.

"He was a hard working person. He had a family. He had no enemies that we know of."

McMillian was not a gang member, according to the sheriff's department. He worked for the city of Pasadena and was studying to join the fire department, according to authorities.

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He was speaking with his girlfriend on the phone before the shooting. Pam Adel, who was at Wednesday's reward announcement, described him as a "man of good character."

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