Carson briefed on two separate waterway death investigations

The City of Carson and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department gave a public update Thursday on two ongoing death investigations tied to bodies recovered in local waterways near the Dominguez Channel and Victoria Golf Course. Authorities say the cases appear unrelated, and patrols have increased while investigators work to identify the victims and determine how they died.

Why it matters: - Two separate death investigations in Carson have triggered a public safety response and raised concern in neighborhoods near local waterways. - Authorities are asking residents to help as investigators work to confirm identities and causes of death. - The Carson Sheriff’s Station has increased deputy presence and patrols around the affected areas.

What happened: - The City of Carson and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Carson Station held a joint press conference Thursday morning at the Carson Sheriff’s Station. - Mayor Pro Tem Cedric Hicks and Carson Sheriff’s Station Captain Alise Norman led the briefing. - Lt. Chris Oakley and Lt. Daniel Vizcarra spoke for the LASD Homicide Bureau, which has taken the lead on both cases. - Investigators said the two deaths are believed to be unrelated at this time. - The city said the briefing was meant to address public concern and keep communication open with residents.

The details: - The first body was found Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026, near the Dominguez Channel. - A preliminary Medical Examiner’s report on Wednesday, Sept. 2, identified the first victim as a female estimated to be between 6 and 12 years old. - The first body was in an advanced state of decomposition. - The second body was recovered Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2026, near the Victoria Golf Course waterway. - The second victim was identified as an adult Black male believed to be around 50 years old. - Investigators estimate the man had been dead for less than 24 hours before the body was discovered. - The cause of death in the second case remains unknown. - Authorities are working with the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner and forensic teams to confirm the identities of both victims and determine official causes of death. - Captain Alise Norman said detectives and deputies are working to establish the facts and keep Carson safe through partnerships with city leaders and the community.

Between the lines: - The city’s public briefing suggests officials want to calm speculation while the homicide bureau continues a fact-heavy investigation. - The separate recovery locations and investigators’ view that the cases are unrelated point to two distinct inquiries rather than a single connected incident. - The quick step-up in patrols signals a focus on visible reassurance as much as investigative follow-up.

What’s next: - The LASD Homicide Bureau will continue investigating both deaths. - The Medical Examiner’s office will work to finalize identifications and causes of death. - Anyone with information is urged to contact the LASD Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500 or the Carson Sheriff’s Station at (310) 830-1123. - Anonymous tips can be submitted to L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS (8477) or online at anonymous tip line.

The bottom line: - Carson officials are trying to balance transparency and reassurance as detectives investigate two unexplained deaths found in local waterways.