Authorities have identified the man who lost his life following a tragic incident inside a beauty supply store in Compton. The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner confirmed the deceased as 42-year-old Zaque Sykes, who was pronounced dead at the scene on Sunday afternoon, October 19, 2025.
According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, the incident occurred around 3:30 p.m. inside the Pink Beauty Supply store, located in the 1300 block of East Alondra Boulevard. Deputies reported that the situation began when Sykes followed a woman into the store and acted inappropriately, prompting employees to ask him to leave.
Witnesses said Sykes became aggressive after being told to exit, yelling threats and throwing products, which created panic among customers. At one point, he was seen holding an item that witnesses feared might be a knife. As tensions escalated, a customer who was legally armed fired a warning shot in an attempt to de-escalate the confrontation. When Sykes reportedly advanced toward her in a threatening manner, the woman discharged a second round, striking him.
Deputies arrived within minutes and found Sykes unresponsive. Paramedics with the Los Angeles County Fire Department determined he had passed away at the scene. The woman who fired the weapon immediately cooperated with investigators and was not taken into custody as the District Attorney’s Office continues to review the case.
Detectives are examining surveillance footage and gathering witness statements to clarify the sequence of events. Officials have urged anyone with information to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500 or Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477.
Authorities have expressed condolences to those affected and assured the public that a full, transparent investigation is underway.
