Zackery "Turtle" Melton, age 28
Lost to gun violence on April 2, 2025 in Venice, California.
Photo sources:
- Contributed photo
News sources:
- SM Mirror: Suspect Still Outstanding in Westminster Dog Park Shooting - SM Mirror
- https://x.com/MicheleMcPhee/status/1907871582216970337
- Instagram: Los Angeles Magazine on Instagram: "Zackery “Turtle” Melton, 29, was shot and killed Wednesday night at the Westminster Dog Park after stepping in to defend a woman during an argument. Locals knew him as a protector, a fast runner with a gentle heart, always seen with his dog Max. The suspect—believed to be a registered sex offender known as “Prince Thomas”—fled in a silver Maserati, sparking a massive LAPD response, SWAT standoff, and a community in shock. As of now, he’s still on the run. “We lost one of the good ones,” said his girlfriend Cheyenne. “He loved everyone here.” Turtle’s friends gathered by the bone-shaped benches, bringing flowers and pouring out a shot in his memory. Read the full story by @michele.mcphee at the link in our bio"
- Los Angeles Times: Homeless man killed in Venice Beach after reportedly intervening in couple's argument
- FOX 11 Los Angeles: Search underway for Maserati-driving murder suspect in Venice
- Gun Violence Archive
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