A 35-year-old music manager devoted to this community was shot and killed Wednesday as he sat inside his car in the Leimert Park area.

The shooting was reported about 2:20 p.m. in the area of Stocker Plaza and Eighth Avenue, according to Officer Sal Ramirez of the Los Angeles Police Department's Media Relations Section.

Demarco Rankin was a father and an independent music manager.

"He always looks out for the kids around here and other people in need and help with the proceeds he get off music," said Rich Rick.

Rankin crawled out of his car after he was shot, detectives said. He was unconscious but breathing when officers arrived, but died at the scene of a gunshot wound to the chest.

Leimert Park residents were shocked to learn about the murder and say crime is rare in the up-and-coming community.

"This is where folks come to have some peace," said Jamal Jones. "For something like this to happen? It's sad."

A black Volkswagen Jetta with a man in his 20s and a female inside fled the scene and was last seen heading east on 42nd Street.

"On behalf of the crying mother, on behalf of the crying sister, this is an appeal to please tell us what you know," said LAPD Capt. Peter Whittingham. "So we can apprehend, bring to justice the people responsible for this senseless killing."