Killed doing his job: LA cops hunt for shoplifting suspects who murdered a Rite Aid employee

Two suspects came into a Los Angeles Rite Aid, where they immediately boosted a couple of cases of beer. When a store employee confronted them, it ended with the worker losing his life.

Los Angeles police continue to search for two suspects in connection to last week’s murder at the pharmacy.

On July 15, the two suspects went into the Rite Aid on Eagle Rock Boulevard. Each took a case of beer and then Miguel Penaloza confronted them, according to police. A struggle took place and one of the suspects pulled out a handgun.

The suspect then shot and killed Penaloza.

The suspects fled the scene, police say. The shooter is described as an 18- to 20-year-old Hispanic man. He stood 5-feet-6-inches tall and weighed 200 pounds. He wore a gray hooded sweatshirt, black shorts and black shoes with white trim.

The other suspect is also an 18- to 20- years-old Hispanic man. He stood 5-foot-8-inches tall and weighed 145 pounds. He wore a black hooded sweatshirt, tan pants and black shoes.

Anyone with information on the killing is asked to call Los Angeles police at (877) 527-3247.

Penaloza’s family created a GoFundMe page after his death and as of July 21, it has raised more than $35,000. His family said he was killed as he did his job.

“While the police still search for his killers, his family and friends search for meaning and hope,” the page read.

Those that knew him said Penaloza was kindhearted, honest and loving. He did anything for his family and worked hard to support the people he loved the most. Penaloza, 46, is survived by his mom, dad, brother, sisters, three nephews and his partner.

“Miguel’s beautiful spirit touched the hearts of everyone who knew him and his death has left so many heartbroken and in disbelief,” the page notes.