Serial killer on the loose as 8 homeless people in LA and Las Vegas are shot dead

A manhunt is underway for a serial killer who allegedly eight homeless people dead in Los Angeles and Las Vegas. Five homeless individuals were targeted near a highway overpass in Las Vegas, with two tragically losing their lives.

This horrific incident occurred on the same day that LA officials announced they were searching for a serial killer who had murdered three homeless people in their sleep. Mayor Karen Bass issued a stark warning to the city's homeless population: "Our message to the unhoused community is clear - do not sleep alone tonight."

Shortly afterwards, a similar shooting took place in Las Vegas. However, it's not yet confirmed if these incidents are linked. LVPD Lt. Mark Lourenco stated: "We believe this is an isolated event," when questioned about an active shooter situation. The investigation continues, with no suspect currently in custody.

The names and ages of the victims in Vegas are yet to be revealed. The victims in LA were described as two Hispanic males and one Black male. Detectives have shared a CCTV image of a suspect wearing a hood and a dark vehicle believed to be connected to the murders.

READ MORE: Police searching for suspected serial killer in LA after string of deaths

Mayor Bass said: "Our message to our unhoused community is clear try not to be alone tonight. We will do all we can to make shelter and services available."

"To the many Angelenos who have friends or family who are unhoused, please let them know the danger that exists. We must stay safe. We will work diligently to bring those responsible to justice."

"As we always do in the face of a challenge or crisis, our region is mobilising to respond to this issue. We will work tirelessly to find the individual responsible, arrest them, and hold them accountable. I have met with our partners at the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles, and the Los Angeles Housing Department and we are moving immediately to get the word out to our unhoused neighbours in housing networks."

LAPD Chief Michel Moore said: "I commend the LAPD for creating a dedicated task force to uncover the identity of a potential serial killer preying on the most vulnerable in our community."

"I've assigned our Major Crimes Division, Bureau of Victim Services and our Bureau of Investigation to assist with these efforts. Today, we demonstrate our collective resolve and stand united in our pursuit of justice, unwavering against the darkness that preys on the most defenseless among us."

If you have any information, please get in touch with the LAPD Robbery-Homicide Division, Homicide Special Section, at (213) 486-6890. If it's outside office hours or during the weekend, ring 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247).