Teen Boy Fatally Shot While Waiting for His Mother at Pico Rivera Gas Station, Suspect Arrested

Saith Mendez, 13, was killed on the evening of August 23 while waiting outside a gas station for his mother

A 13-year-old boy was tragically murdered while waiting for his mother outside a gas station in Pico Rivera, California.

The victim, identified as Saith Mendez, was killed on August 23 at a 76 Gas Station where his mother, Clara Fabiola, had been working the night shift.

Authorities named 20-year-old Andres Adan Chavez as the suspect after reviewing security footage. Sheriff Robert Luna said Chavez was seen exiting the rear passenger seat of a vehicle near the pumps, loitering around the station, and then opening fire on the boy in what investigators described as an unprovoked attack.

Authorities said Saith was shot 'unprovoked' in front of his mother in Los Angeles, California

Chavez allegedly shot Mendez in the back before standing over him and continuing to fire. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but the teen later died from his injuries. Sheriff Luna condemned the killing as “cowardly” and described Chavez as a “violent individual.”

Following the attack, Chavez fled the scene, sparking a countywide manhunt. On the evening of August 29, deputies located and arrested him in Los Angeles.

Andres Adan Chavez, 20, was arrested a week later on murder charges for the young teen's death

Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman called the crime “every parent’s worst nightmare.” He added, “The victim was simply waiting for his mom when he was gunned down. No mother should have to endure the unbearable tragedy of losing their child, especially in such a violent manner. We will work tirelessly to pursue justice in this case.”

Pico Rivera Mayor John R. Garcia also expressed the community’s grief, stating, “No family should ever have to endure this type of pain. No parent should ever have to bury a child.”

Chavez was pictured on security footage exiting a vehicle and lingering around the gas station before allegedly opening fire and killing Saith

The victim’s family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for funeral expenses, describing themselves as “heartbroken” by the devastating loss.

Authorities revealed that Chavez has a prior conviction for violent assault and is believed to have gang affiliations. He is being held without bond on murder charges, including a special circumstance allegation of murder while lying in wait, and for possession of a loaded firearm that was not registered to him.

Chavez made his first court appearance on Tuesday, with his arraignment scheduled for September 29.

Authorities vowed to get justice for the teen's death, after he was killed at 76 Gas Station in Pico Rivera