A message to the cowardly and despicable man who shot and killed Simi Valley resident Walter R. Vela last weekend: You will be caught.

Simi is a city that protects its own and somewhere, somebody knows who and where you are.

Last week's brazen late-night shooting on Sebring Avenue has once again awakened the city to the presence of violent criminals who would tarnish Simi's reputation as a safe place to live, individuals who see bullets as an acceptable means of solving an argument.

But it also demonstrates how much local residents care for one another, especially in times of crisis or tragedy.

It began with the residents of Sebring, who, after being awakened by the unfamiliar sound of early morning gunfire, came to the aid of the bloody 24-year- old victim and his friends. And it continued with the outpouring of love and support shown for the grieving Vela family.

The character of a community shouldn't be judged by the deplorable actions of its worst citizens, but rather by the courage and compassion displayed by its best. In that regard, Sunday morning's shooting didn't darken the light of Simi, but made it shine brighter.

Walter Vela's life can never be replaced. His future, who he might have become, what he might have accomplished, will never be known.

What is known is that we must do all we can to try and make sure no other Simi Valley residents will meet Vela's fate.

The Simi Valley Acorn staff extends its heartfelt condolences to the Vela family and their friends, and has a message for anyone who might have information related to the case but isn't speaking up: Your silence could let a killer go free. Next time, if there is one, your own friends or family members could be the target.