Woman, 24, and Her Neighbor Fatally Shot as She Allegedly Attempted to End Relationship with Boyfriend, 48

**Tragic Shooting in Pomona Leaves Two Dead; Boyfriend Arrested**

In a devastating incident in Pomona, California, Veronica Lopez was found fatally wounded following a shooting on Thursday, June 18. The 24-year-old’s death is suspected to have stemmed from a domestic dispute involving her boyfriend, Robert Galtman, who has since been arrested in connection with the crime.

The Pomona Police Department reported that officers responded to calls regarding shots fired at an apartment complex at around 3:22 p.m. Upon arrival, they discovered Lopez and a neighbour, Robert Brady, both suffering from gunshot wounds in the building’s hallway. Despite the prompt arrival of paramedics from the Los Angeles County Fire Department, who attempted to revive them, both victims tragically succumbed to their injuries within a short span of time.

Lopez’s boyfriend, Galtman, aged 48, initially fled the scene but was apprehended several hours later following a police pursuit. Officers were able to apprehend him on a highway in Castaic after executing a PIT manoeuvre. The police later confirmed there was no ongoing threat to public safety at that time.

According to family members, Lopez had been in a tumultuous relationship with Galtman for approximately two years. They allege that Galtman was abusive and had urged Lopez on multiple occasions to end the relationship. Lopez’s mother, Sheila, speculated that the shooting may have occurred while her daughter was attempting to distance herself from Galtman. “I believe she was walking away; that is why this all happened,” she expressed.

The shocking reality of Lopez’s death struck her family when they saw news reports covering the police chase. Her sister, Klarissa, recounted how they recognised her sister’s vehicle during the broadcast. “We were watching the chase live, and my mum noticed the car and the dog that they rescued,” Klarissa shared. When they contacted the Pomona Police Department, their worst fears were confirmed through fingerprint identification.

Family members painted a picture of Lopez as a talented individual with a promising future. Her father expressed heartbreak over her untimely death, stating, “She used to be a pro skater, had so many positives going in her life. I don’t know what kind of problems she was going through, but we tried to help her.” He lamented the fact that such a bright life was cut short, branding Galtman a coward for his actions.

Lopez’s family further expressed their grief and outrage, with Klarissa noting, “I know she didn’t deserve to get murdered… a grown man murdered my sister.” In the wake of Lopez’s death, a GoFundMe page was established to assist with funeral expenses, quickly raising over £5,000 in support.

Brady, who was identified as Lopez’s neighbour, also lost his life during the incident, reportedly shot while attempting to intervene in the ongoing domestic dispute. His heroic actions in trying to aid Lopez highlights the tragic consequences of domestic violence and the often perilous situations faced by those who intervene.

The Pomona Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit is currently conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragic event. Galtman remains in police custody, with bail set at a substantial £3.1 million. He is expected to face arraignment on Tuesday, June 23.

In light of this horrific case, authorities emphasise the importance of addressing domestic violence. Those experiencing similar situations are encouraged to reach out for help. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7, offering confidential advice and support in over 170 languages.

This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of domestic violence. As the community mourns the loss of two lives, it also raises urgent questions about how to effectively support victims and prevent future tragedies.