A celebratory night turned into tragedy in downtown Los Angeles as 29-year-old Gregory Derisso was identified as one of two people killed in a mass shooting early Monday morning. The violence erupted near the site of several #HardSummer music festival after-parties, leaving six others injured, two of whom remain in critical condition.
The shooting occurred around 1 a.m. near 14th Place and Griffith Avenue, in an area buzzing with post-festival events, according to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). Authorities say they initially shut down a large party at the location around 11 p.m. Sunday after a person believed to be armed was arrested at the scene. However, hours later, gunfire broke out again, prompting a second police response.
When officers arrived, they discovered eight people suffering from gunshot wounds. Gregory Derisso, a Los Angeles resident originally from Stockton, California, was pronounced dead at the scene. A 52-year-old woman later died at the hospital. The remaining victims, ranging in age from 26 to 62, were transported to local hospitals — some by ambulance, others self-transported.
Gregory’s father, Judner Derisso, confirmed his son’s identity in a public statement. He described Gregory as a dedicated music producer and, most importantly, a father of three young children, all under the age of five.
“He was full of life, chasing his dreams in music, and loved his children more than anything,” said Judner. “This senseless violence robbed us of a son, a father, a talent, and a good man.”
Gregory attended West Adams Preparatory High School and lived in Los Angeles. His passion for music was matched by his devotion to his family and his drive to create a better future for his kids.
The motive behind the shooting remains unknown, and LAPD detectives continue to investigate. Authorities have not confirmed if the incident was directly connected to the Hard Summer music festival, though promotional material described the party as an unofficial after-party for the event.
The Hard Summer festival, held at Hollywood Park next to SoFi Stadium, featured a major lineup including Busta Rhymes, Kaytranada, Four Tet, and others across seven stages, with multiple pre- and after-parties organized around the city.
As the investigation unfolds, the families of the victims — particularly Gregory’s young children — are left grappling with unimaginable loss.