NBCUniversal finance executive's death ruled a homicide

The death last week of NBCUniversal executive Brian Russell Kaplon has been ruled a homicide. Kaplon, 32, worked at the media company's Burbank offices as a director of digital distribution finance and was well-regarded by his co-workers.

Law enforcement authorities told The Times that Kaplon was killed with a military-style rifle at the end of a St. Patrick's Day party in Porter Ranch. The party was at the home of a childhood friend of Kaplon's, who has since been arrested in connection with the death.

“Both of the men were in the garage with a rifle when one man shot and killed the other man. There are no other witnesses," LAPD Deputy Chief Kirk Albanese told The Times. "The other man made a statement that was taken into consideration before it was determined to be a homicide.”

[Updated Sunday, 11:50 a.m., to include statement from NBCUniversal: "We are deeply saddened by the loss of our friend and colleague, Brian. Brian was an incredibly dedicated husband and father, and an invaluable member of our team. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends." ]