Authorities in South Los Angeles are intensifying their search for suspects responsible for the brutal killing of 50-year-old Clay Buchanan, who was set on fire in his vehicle. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is urging the public to come forward with any information that could lead to the identification, arrest, and prosecution of those responsible. To encourage tips, officials have announced a $50,000 reward for information that helps solve the case.
The horrific crime took place on August 8, 2024, around 1:30 a.m. on East 103rd Street. Buchanan was sitting inside his vehicle when he was attacked by suspects who approached from behind, threw an accelerant on him and his car, and then set him on fire before fleeing the scene in a dark-colored, four-door sedan. Buchanan suffered severe burns and was rushed to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
During a press conference, LAPD Captain Scot Williams emphasized the urgency of the investigation and the devastating impact of the crime on Buchanan’s family and the community. “We need the public’s help to bring a conclusion to this investigation. What happened to Mr. Buchanan is terrible,” he stated. “It had an impact on his family and this community, and we need the public’s help with any information they may have regarding this murder.”
Buchanan’s family is also pleading for justice, urging anyone with knowledge of the crime to come forward. Trina Magee, Buchanan’s sister, shared her heartache and determination to find those responsible. “I’m still trying to process what happened to him,” Magee said. “I want somebody to step up and help us out with who did this to my brother. It was a cowardly way to do things. It was the wrong way to do things. I’m looking forward to seeing you for justice one day.”
As of now, investigators have not determined a motive for the homicide. Detectives are continuing their work, hoping that witnesses or community members with relevant information will come forward to assist in solving the case. The LAPD Robbery-Homicide Division is leading the investigation, and officials believe that the $50,000 reward could be a key incentive to encourage tips from the public.
Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the homicide to contact LAPD Robbery Homicide Division Detectives B. Smith or G. Stearns at 213-486-6890. Information can also be provided during non-business hours by calling 877-527-3247. For those who wish to remain anonymous, Crime Stoppers is accepting tips at 800-222-8477 or online at lacrimestoppers.org.
As the investigation unfolds, community members remain shocked and saddened by the violent nature of the crime. Many are now advocating for enhanced safety measures in the neighborhood, calling on law enforcement to increase patrols and crime prevention efforts to curb similar acts of violence in South LA.
The LAPD remains hopeful that someone will come forward with a crucial lead, and for Buchanan’s grieving family, justice cannot come soon enough. With the reward in place and ongoing investigative efforts, detectives believe they are closer to finding the perpetrators and bringing closure to a family that seeks answers and accountability.
