Chuck Norris to Help Pay for Youth’s Funeral

Martial arts film star Chuck Norris said this week he will help pay for the funeral of a Sylmar teen-ager--the son of international kick-boxing champions--who was killed Saturday in a gang-related drive-by shooting.

The victims’ parents, William (Blinky) and Lilly Rodriguez, are well known in kick boxing, an Oriental sport that allows use of the feet as well as fists. Norris, a family friend, knew the slain boy.

Norris said he will contribute to a trust fund to cover the funeral costs. There also will be a benefit kick-boxing event today at the Hollywood Palladium.

Sonny Rodriguez, 16, was fatally shot Saturday in Sylmar by youths shouting gang slogans. Police said Sonny was also believed to be a gang member.

Two men arrested in the case--Mario Hernandez, 20, and Lorenzo Martinez, 19, both of Pacoima--have pleaded not guilty to charges of murder and attempted murder.