LAPD dectectives are still collecting evidence at the scene of Joseph Gatto’s home in Silver Lake after the father of Burbank Assemblyman Mike Gatto was found murdered at the house.
Gatto was found slumped over a chair with an apparent gunshot wound according to police at the scene. The former nationally recognized art teacher who has been recognized by the White House on three separate occasions. Since his retirement as a teacher, he has been working out of his home creating artwork and jewelry.
Assemblyman Gatto was in Sacramento at the time of the incident. His Communication Director, Justin Hager, issued the following statement, “Joseph Gatto was a retired art teacher and (post-retirement) a jewelry craftsman. He was 78. The Assemblyman learned of his death by phone in Sacramento. He is absolutely devastated. The Los Angeles Police Department is investigating, and Assemblyman Gatto thanks them for their kindness and thoroughness.”
Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. issued the following statement regarding the death of Gatto’s death, “Anne and I extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to the Gatto family in this time of mourning.”
“My heart goes out to the Gatto Family. Joseph Gatto was a friend to all in the neighborhood. My prayers are with the family.” said Los Angeles Councilmember Tom LaBonge.
California Assembly Speaker John A. Pérez released the following statement, “This is a terrible time for Assemblymember Gatto and his family. Those of us in Mike’s Assembly family are keeping the Gattos in our thoughts and prayers. We have faith the Los Angeles Police Department will find the answers to this senseless crime.”
It is the first reported murder in Silver Lake this year according to Los Angeles Police Department reports.
