Arrest Made in 110 Freeway Murder

A 30-year-old woman has been charged with the murder of Samantha Padilla, the 19-year-old LAX employee who was gunned down last week on the West Slauson off-ramp of the northbound 110 Freeway late at night.

Jessica Ortega faces arraignment this afternoon for one count of murder. According to the press release issued from the District Attorney's office, the "count carries two special allegations that the principal intentionally discharged a firearm causing death and that the offense was committed for the benefit of, at the direction of, and in association with a criminal street gang." Padilla's murder, which took place in her car, appears to be unprovoked.

Ortega is known by the nickname "Gorda" and is allegedly a member of the Playboys Gang. If convicted she will face a "maximum state prison sentence of 50 years to life."

Photo by Amy March via Flickr