Ambrocio ‘Enrique’ Lozano, the beloved local vendor who disappeared in June leaving behind his palatero cart, has been reunited with his family after almost four months in custody.
Kimberly Noriega, Lozano’s niece who has become the family spokesperson through the ordeal, had some good news to post on social media. After months of stress and sadness, she said, “Today is the day everything changed. Today, my uncle was seen for who he truly is: a hardworking man, a kind man, and a man with a huge heart. Today is the day we got my uncle back. Today is the day my aunt got her husband back. Today I am proud to say my uncle has been released.”
She described the devastating effect that the detention had on the family, “114 days my aunt had to sleep alone. 114 days, my mom went back and forth from the lawyer’s office. 114 days of stress. 114 days of constant let-downs with each court day. 114 days kids have gone without their paletas. 114 days of constant crying. 114 days of what-ifs. 114 days of wondering what he must be going through.”
Lozano has also been granted a Green Card and permanent residency, according to his family, a resolution that brings solace and celebration after months of legal battles.
The Community Self-Defense Coalition helped Lozano’s family recover his belongings and began coordinating efforts to locate him.
A press conference was held in Culver City on June 29, 2025, attended by leaders from Congress, Los Angeles County and the Culver City Council and the CCUSD School Board. Hosted by Vice Mayor Freddy Puza, the statement for the rights and safety of residents was loud.
At the press conference, Noriega also spoke, saying “I want to say thanks everyone for being here, this community is great. What has happened to my uncle is insane. We have each other’s back, and together we can do this.”
In her statement on social media today, Noriega offered “None of this would have been possible without you guys. Truly! With much love from our family to all of you!”
Judith Martin-Straw
Photo of Lozano & spouse form GoFundMe
