A 20-year-old mother in South Los Angeles was fatally shot early Sunday morning when a stray bullet pierced her bedroom window as she slept beside her young daughter, authorities and family members said.

Maria Ventura (also referred to as Maria Barrios Ventura) was struck in the head around 3:30 a.m. in the Vermont Vista neighborhood near 103rd Street and Grand Avenue. Her boyfriend, Omar Michael, told reporters they were sleeping together in bed with their 21-month-old daughter when multiple shots were fired outside. One bullet entered through the window, killing Ventura. She died about 10 minutes later despite efforts to save her.

Michael described the horror: “I never imagined that a bullet was going to enter here while we slept… When I touched her, she didn’t move.” He ran for help while a friend called 911. Investigators found evidence of at least seven shots fired, with two striking the home. The child was unharmed.

No arrests have been made, and LAPD detectives are investigating the shooting as a possible gang-related or random act of violence in a neighborhood plagued by gun violence. Neighbors expressed shock and fear over the randomness of the tragedy.

Ventura leaves behind her young daughter and grieving family. Relatives described her as a loving mother whose life was cut short in her own home. A GoFundMe or similar support efforts may be underway for funeral costs and the child’s care.

This incident highlights the ongoing scourge of stray bullets in Los Angeles, where innocent bystanders—including children and families in their homes—continue to fall victim to street violence.

Sources

• NBC4 Los Angeles