U.S. News
LA Activist Killed By Homeless Woman In Random Attack
By CM Chaney · November 30, 2023
In brief…
- LA activist Michael Latt, 33, was fatally shot Monday in alleged random attack
- Suspect Jameelah Michl, 36, homeless woman living in car, arrested on scene
- Motive unclear; police call it tragic, random violence
- Latt founded group helping minorities in entertainment industry
- Neighbors remembering Latt as “super sweet guy” engaged to partner
Michael Latt, a 33-year-old Los Angeles social justice advocate, was fatally shot Monday in what police call a tragic, random act of violence. Latt, founder of the group “Lead With Love,” was pronounced dead after being found wounded in his Mid-Wilshire home.
The suspect, 36-year-old Jameelah Elena Michl, allegedly broke into the residence around 6pm, the LAPD said. Michl, who was living out of her car, remained at the scene and was arrested outside the home.
A motive remains unclear, but police sources told the LA Times it appears random. Michl faces a murder charge and $3 million bail as the investigation continues.
Latt’s family paid tribute on Instagram, saying he “fell victim to a tragic act of violence” after a career helping minorities and women through organizations focused on “hope, love and inspiration.” Neighbors remembered Latt as a “super sweet guy” who lived with his fiancée.
One neighbor, Avarie Shevin, said she was “heartbroken” and shocked. “I keep picturing his face and I cannot believe he has passed,” Shevin told KTLA.
Latt founded Lead With Love, a consulting firm elevating black entertainers in Hollywood. He was photographed in 2020 alongside rapper Common at a Kentucky rally for Breonna Taylor, whom police killed in her home.