In a tragic incident in California, Michael Latt, a 33-year-old Hollywood consultant and social justice activist, lost his life in a shooting at his home. The Los Angeles Police Department reported that the alleged assailant, 36-year-old Jameelah Elena Michl, forcibly entered Latt’s Mid-Wilshire neighborhood apartment and shot him in the head. The incident occurred around 6 p.m. on Monday in Latt’s $800,000 one-bedroom apartment.
The Los Angeles District Attorney, George Gascon, disclosed that Michl, who was reportedly stalking another woman, targeted Latt due to his association with the woman. After the shooting, Latt was quickly transported to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. Michl was apprehended at the scene by the police, who also seized her vehicle.
Gascon, in a statement, emphasized the gravity of the incident, calling it a harsh reminder of the broader societal issues that can lead to such devastating outcomes.
Latt, the CEO and CFO of the marketing firm Lead With Love, which he founded, was committed to supporting women of influence and artists of color through storytelling and art. His company aimed to create lasting change and bring hope and inspiration to communities. Latt’s work included contributions to significant films such as “Fruitvale Station,” which dealt with the police shooting of Oscar Grant in Oakland, and “Till,” a film about Emmett Till’s mother.
An advocate for social justice, Latt actively participated in Black Lives Matter protests and expressed support for Democratic political figures, including Georgia Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock, on his social media.
Latt’s mother, Michelle Satter, an executive at the Sundance Institute, expressed her grief over the tragic loss of her son, describing it as a “tragic act of violence.” Latt’s website features photos of him with notable figures like rapper Common, political activist Stacey Abrams, and U.S. Representatives Ilhan Omar and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
Coming from a prominent Hollywood family, Latt’s connections in the industry were extensive. His father, David Latt, is a film producer, and his brother holds a significant position at CAA.
Michl, currently detained on $3 million bail, faces charges of murder, burglary, and unlawful use of a firearm. Her arraignment is scheduled for December 15, and if convicted, she could face a life sentence.
Neighbor Avarie Shevin, in a statement to KTLA, expressed disbelief and sorrow over Latt’s death. Latt’s fiancée, Hannah Lovingood, shared her anguish on Instagram, mourning the sudden and tragic loss of her partner and best friend.