A 21-year-old man, Gerardo Magallanes, is set to be sentenced Monday for his role in the fatal shooting of off-duty Monterey Park police officer Gardiel Solorio, 26, during what authorities describe as a botched daytime robbery in Downey. Magallanes pleaded no contest to voluntary manslaughter and faces 24 years and eight months in state prison.
Details of the Crime
The tragic incident occurred on August 8, 2022, when Officer Solorio was in his vehicle near an LA Fitness parking lot on Lakewood Boulevard, close to the Glenn Anderson (105) Freeway. Surveillance video showed a man in a gray hooded sweatshirt and black ski mask approach Solorio’s car, firing multiple rounds. Solorio attempted to flee but was shot and pronounced dead at the scene.
Solorio, a rookie officer who had just graduated from the sheriff’s training academy in July 2022, had joined the Monterey Park Police Department with aspirations of serving his community. Department leaders called his death a senseless act of violence, highlighting his commitment and dedication despite his short time on the force.
Co-Defendants and Charges
The other suspect, Carlos Delcid, 23, is awaiting trial on multiple charges including murder, shooting at an occupied motor vehicle, and possession of a firearm by a felon. The murder charge carries special circumstances, citing attempted robbery and attempted carjacking, with Delcid allegedly personally discharging a handgun. He faces life in prison without the possibility of parole if convicted.
A 17-year-old juvenile, who was driving the getaway car, has already been sentenced to 11 years in custody after pleading no contest to voluntary manslaughter.
Evidence and Investigations
Detectives presented detailed evidence during hearings, including:
- Surveillance footage showing the suspects’ movements.
- Jailhouse operations where Magallanes admitted being in the vehicle and witnessing the shooting.
- Testimony from Long Beach police regarding a related April 26, 2022, robbery in which Delcid allegedly used a firearm to rob a victim of a chain and wallet.
Detectives identified Delcid by the nickname “Reckless” during jailhouse investigations. Evidence also included clothing, such as the gray hoodie and ski mask, found in the getaway vehicle.
Officer Solorio’s Life and Legacy
Officer Solorio grew up in Bell Gardens and earned a criminal justice degree from Cal State Los Angeles. He joined the Monterey Park Police Department in January 2022 and graduated from the sheriff’s training academy in July before beginning field training. Department officials remembered Solorio for his heart of service and dedication to protecting the community.
Monterey Park Police Chief Kelly Gordon emphasized the personal loss felt by the department and Solorio’s family, stating, “He was only 26 years old. I don’t know about all of you, but I have children that age. So to me, this is particularly difficult.”
Legal Proceedings Ahead
Magallanes’ sentencing on voluntary manslaughter and related charges will occur Monday, 2025, with prosecutors recommending significant prison time given the violent nature of the crime and its impact on the community. Delcid’s trial remains pending, with potential life imprisonment if convicted.
Authorities continue to underscore the tragic consequences of violent crime and its impact on first responders and the broader community.
References
- Source: The Center Square
- Source: Los Angeles Times
- Source: Monterey Park Police Department
Disclaimer: This article is based on public records, court filings, and law enforcement statements. It is intended for informational purposes only and may not reflect the full legal proceedings.
