Teen Arrested After Store Employee Killed While Trying to Stop Shoplifters in South El Monte

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Tragic Incident During Attempted Robbery

A 16-year-old boy has been arrested in connection with the death of Kourosh “Steve” Yaghoubi, a store employee who was run over and killed while trying to stop a robbery at his brother’s business in South El Monte. Authorities confirmed the teen was the driver of the getaway car that struck and killed the victim.

Confrontation in the Parking Lot Turns Fatal

The incident took place outside the Giant Discount Store on Durfee Avenue, which is owned by Steve’s brother, Jim Yaghoubi. According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, the teen suspect attempted to leave the store without paying for a $10 box of masks. Steve and Jim followed him into the parking lot, leading to a confrontation.

As the situation escalated, two other individuals exited the vehicle, and one of them struck Steve in the head, causing him to collapse. All three suspects then got back in the car, running over Steve as they reversed and again as they sped away.

Grieving Brother Witnesses Final Moments

Jim Yaghoubi witnessed the horrific event unfold. “Doors open, two other guys exit the car, and one of them punches my brother in the head, he holds his head and he goes down,” he said. “The body under the car was turning, all the way from the front tire to the back tire.”

Devastated, Jim recalled watching the final moments of his brother’s life. “I don’t know why this happened. Honestly. I was there at the last minute of his life. I saw his face. I saw his eyes.”

Steve was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigation Ongoing

The suspect’s identity has not been released due to his age. The case will be presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for a decision on potential charges. Authorities are continuing to search for additional suspects who were seen in the vehicle during the incident.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the LASD Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500.