Pomona Authorities Ask the Public's Help with Cold Cases

Pomona police detectives asked for the public's help this week as they try to solve cold case killings from 1973 and 2006 which they think may be solvable.

Arthur Martinez was murdered on Feb. 16, 1973. His body was dumped into the San Antonio Flood Control Channel at Phillips Drive west of East End. Investigative leads were exhausted during the initial investigation.

The case has been investigated since the department established a cold case unit in 2007, according to a statement from the Pomona Police Department.

Martinez had many acquaintances and "it is our belief that information about the murder is still available. It is understood that many people have been hesitant to talk in the past, but the Martinez family has not been able to have closure," the statement said.

Then-Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger authorized a $50,000 reward in the case, and the family is hoping this reward might persuade witnesses to come forward.

The second unsolved killing occurred on Jan. 6, 2006 when Andre Laurent was murdered at the AM/PM Market at 2488 S. Reservoir St.

Detectives at the time had lots of leads, but still need more information. They believe there are witnesses who could help. A $50,000 reward for new information has been offered.

Anyone with information on either killing was asked to call Detective Jen Turpin at (909) 620-2169.