West Covina woman killed while on phone with 911

A West Covina woman who was on the phone talking with 911 dispatchers about a possible burglary was shot and killed Wednesday morning, apparently while the crime was in progress, Los Angeles County sheriff’s officials said.

The victim was shot at a home in the 19700 block of Cameron Avenue about 11:40 a.m. while she was on the phone with 911 emergency dispatchers, said Lt. Dan Rosenberg.

The victim, whom authorities described as a “female Asian adult,” was pronounced dead at the scene.

“It was perfectly obvious that she was defenseless and in absolutely no position to harm these individuals,” Rosenberg said. “For whatever reason, they elected to shoot her.”

Rosenberg did not disclose details of the shooting. He said the investigation was continuing and no motive had been established for the slaying.

“It was vicious,” he said.

Detectives were canvassing the neighborhood for witnesses. One person told authorities that at least one person had been seen running from the residence.

Anyone with information about the crime is asked to call the sheriff’s homicide bureau at (323) 890-5500.

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andrew.blankstein

@latimes.com