Slain Taxi Driver’s Identity Released; Gunman Sought

Authorities Tuesday released the name of the taxi driver who was fatally shot in his cab in the San Gabriel Valley community of East Valinda.

The driver was identified as David Solorzano, 39, of La Puente. He died at the scene of the shooting, which occurred about 3:30 p.m. Monday in the 17600 block of Gemini Street, Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies said Tuesday. He is survived by his wife and three young children.

“He was a really good driver. I never had complaints about him. Sometimes if they have a bad attitude, customers complain, but he never refused any calls,” said Jeff Navidi, owner of the Covina-based AAA Yellow Taxi Co., where Solorzano had worked for two years.

Neighbors on the quiet suburban street where the incident occurred told police they heard several gunshots and ran outside in time to see a man fleeing the scene.

Lt. Marilyn Baker said Tuesday that authorities suspect the shooting involved a robbery but declined to release any further information about the investigation. The search for the killer is continuing.

The taxi’s engine was still running when deputies found the victim, who had been shot in the upper body.

“I was so sad this morning. I know how the family feels,” said Navidi.