Deadly crash in Bell being investigated as a homicide

A fatal car crash in Bell is now being investigated as a homicide after authorities found the victim suffered from a gunshot wound.

The crash happened around 2 a.m. on Wednesday after a vehicle hit a pole at the intersection of Florence Boulevard and Vinedale Avenue, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department.

Both the Bell Police Department and LA County Fire responded to the scene.

Authorities said the male victim was found outside the vehicle near the crash site with at least one gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

On Friday, the victim was identified as 35-year-old Oscar Gonzalez by the Los Angeles County Department Medical Examiner's Office. 

A Whittier man was arrested in connection with the shooting on Wednesday, according to LASD deputies. He was identified as Edward Paul Patino, 20, and is being held on $2 million bail. 

LA County Sheriff's homicide detectives are investigating the incident and working to determine a motive.