Prayer Vigil Held For Woman, 62, Fatally Stabbed Over Purse In South LA

SOUTH LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — More than 100 people turned out Sunday night to pay tribute to a 62-year-old woman stabbed to death on a South L.A. sidewalk.

The prayer vigil was for Maria Elena Rivas near the spot where on Monday she was killed by a man who wanted her purse, the LAPD reported.

Police say she was attacked at Adams Boulevard and Catalina Avenue.

Her friends say they're devastated and angry about her death.

"She always offered a plate of food. She was always happy. She was very reserved and shy, but she was a humble human being and she never took anything from anyone," friend and neighbor Melissa Monge said.

Police are hoping some witnesses will step forward to help in this case. They say anyone wishing to remain anonymous can call or text L.A. Crime Stoppers.