LA cops are hunting a SERIAL KILLER after three homeless people were shot dead by 'hooded male suspect' - as police warn locals to avoid sleeping outside alone at night

LAPD has warned that a potential serial killer could be on the loose after three homeless people were murdered in the past week. 

Police are asking the public's assistance in identifying the suspect responsible for three murders that occurred on November 26, 27, and 29 around downtown and in South Los Angeles, California. 

The LAPD said the investigation is at the early stage, but noted similarities in those three killings. 

'A single individual approached each one and shot and killed each one as they slept,' LAPD Chief Michel Moore said. 

'The suspect, hooded, targets lone, unsheltered individuals sleeping on the streets, shooting them before fleeing in a vehicle without any observed altercation', LAPD reported during a Friday afternoon press conference. 

'To the person responsible: We will find you, we will catch you and you will be held accountable,' Mayor Karen Bass said. 

A 37-year-old man was killed in south Los Angeles early Sunday morning. 

The following day, around 4:45am, a homeless man in his 50s was shot to death in downtown LA, and the third victim, in his 60s, was killed the day after.

Moore did not use the term 'serial killer,' but said the three victims were found dead under similar circumstances.  

This is a breaking news story - more to follow.