Detectives are investigating the fifth homicide in Downtown L.A. this year, after officers were led to what the LAPD is calling a "bloody crime scene" inside the Renato Apartments on Skid Row. Last night a woman told passing officers there were two men fighting in one of the single-occupancy residence (SRO) units; in room 415 they found a "bloody mess" and one dead man, and one man who is now expected to survive, and provide vital details about the incident. In the small apartment, the LAPD found at least one knife, signs of a struggle, and indications alcohol played a role in the crime. more ›

LAPD Detectives took less than 24 hours to identify a suspect in the shooting death of 41-year-old Conrad "Dread" Phillip, who was gunned down early yesterday morning at 563 South Los Angeles Street on Skid Row. A warrant was issued overnight for 50-year-old Charles Colbert, who was last known to be living at the Pershing Hotel, an SRO located a block from the scene of the crime. more ›

Contrasting the Los Angeles City Council's vote earlier today on mansionization, affecting single-family homes, another ordinance was passed today -- one that replaces a temporary 2005 law regarding downtown residential hotels, mostly used by low-income and nearly homeless people. more ›