Zackery "Turtle" Melton, age 28

Lost to gun violence on April 2, 2025 in Venice, California.

Photo sources:

• Facebook
• 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

Other nearby fatal shootings:

• Venice, CA - September 1, 2025
• Venice, CA - June 4, 2012