Photo: mediabistro.com -- Publicist Ronni Chasen
Beverly Hills Police reportedly have a “working theory” about the murder mystery surrounding the death of well-known Hollywood Publicist, Ronni Chasen. The Hollywood Reporter posted an article on its website today saying investigators believe the fatal shooting of Chasen was planned and not “the result of road rage or a carjacking gone awry.” This fuels speculation that the attack was a professional hit.
The Hollywood Reporter attributed its information to a “Beverly Hills city official” who was allegedly briefed on the case by Beverly Hills Police Chief, David Snowden. Also, THR is reporting investigators are reviewing video from a security camera at the Whittier Drive home of the late comedian, Buddy Hackett and are “actively” hunting for other video that might provide clues to what happened in the fatal assault on Chasen early Tuesday morning.
Chasen reportedly attended an after-party in Hollywood for the movie premiere of, “Burlesque,” before calling it a night and heading for home. The 64 -year-old press agent was apparently taking a shortcut to her Westside condo when she was gunned down. Chasen’s late model Mercedes-Benz crashed into a light pole on Whittier Drive just south of Sunset Boulevard in Beverly Hills, at around 12:30 a.m. on November 16. Chasen was shot five times in the chest and was pronounced dead at Cedars Sinai Medical Center a short time later.
Since the murder, police have searched Chasen’s home and her West Hollywood business, Chasen & Company, for potential evidence.
The Palm Springs International Film Festival is offering a $100,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the shooter. Meanwhile, a funeral for Chasen is set for 11 a.m. this Sunday, November 21, at Hillside Memorial Park and Mortuary in Culver City. It will be followed by a private reception.
