Reward for Alleged Baby Killer Now $75K

Van Nuys - Federal officials added $25,000 to a reward being offered for information leading to the capture of a man wanted in connection with the shooting death of a 4-month-old baby on Monday.

Ricardo Hernandez, 23, of Los Angeles, has been charged with murder for the shooting that killed Andrew Garcia in the 14300 block of Kittridge Street in Van Nuys Sept. 27.

The Los Angeles City Council earlier offered a $50,000 reward for information leading to his arrest and conviction. The federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives added $25,000 to that reward offer today.

The boy's babysitter, 28-year-old Anna Contreras, was feeding him inside a car while his parents and friends, including an 18-year-old man, stood nearby.

Police said the group got into an argument with two people walking across the street, one of whom -- authorities believe it was Hernandez -- fired six shots, striking the pregnant woman, the boy and the 18-year-old man.

The boy died at a hospital. The woman was hospitalized and survived. The wounded man was treated and released.

Police said the shooting was gang-related. Hernandez -- described by police as a known gang member considered to be armed and dangerous -- is still believed to be in the Los Angeles area.

Hernandez is 5 feet 9 and weighs 185 pounds. He was linked to the crime by physical evidence as well as tips and leads, police said.

Alfonzo Landa, a 17-year-old reputed gang member, was previously arrested in connection with the crime. He was charged Oct. 13 with murder and other counts stemming from the shooting.

Landa, who is being tried as an adult, pleaded not guilty during his arraignment in Van Nuys. His bail was set at $9.05 million.

Anyone with information on the shooting was urged to call the Van Nuys Station at (818) 374-9500.