Last Saturday, Pasadena, California, mourned the loss of 64-year-old Mickey Cooper, brother of Los Angeles Lakers legend Michael Cooper. Mickey was fatally shot at Washington Park. The local community reacted with shock while authorities began investigating. This incident was documented by Hoodline.
Yesterday, The Pasadena Police Department (PPD) announced on their Facebook page, a person of interest had been identified just hours after the shooting. Local authorities responded to a gunshot detection alert at 4:10 a.m. to find a gravely injured Mickey Cooper.
Aaron Miguel Conell, aged 24, quickly became the prime suspect. The US Marshal's Pacific Southwest Regional Fugitive Taskforce, PPD SWAT, and the PPD K-9 Unit significantly contributed to his arrest. Originally apprehended on unrelated firearms assault charges, Connell's charges were expanded yesterday to include murder under Penal Code 187. While the motive is still unconfirmed, police are actively investigating and requesting public help for further information.
Michael Cooper, while managing his basketball analyst responsibilities for ABC7, is grappling with the trauma of his brother's violent death. Boasting five championships with the Los Angeles Lakers and two championships with the Los Angeles Sparks in the WNBA, Michael's tragic ordeal was reported on by Hoodline.
As the investigation continues, the PPD encourages Pasadena residents to remain alert and contribute to law enforcement's ongoing efforts. Anonymous reports can be made by calling (626) 744-4241, "Crime Stoppers" at (800) 222-TIPS (8477), through the "P3 Tips" mobile app, or online at lacrimestoppers.org.
