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Thursday, Jun. 25, 2009
Modesto man recalls meeting Michael Jackson in L.A.
A Modesto man who recently shook hands with Michael Jackson during a chance encounter in Los Angeles said he's saddened to hear of the pop superstar's death.
Lupe Delossantos said he, his sister and his 5-year-old niece had a taken a Hollywood tour on April 26 when they encountered Jackson on Melrose Avenue while the King of Pop was shopping. A gang of about 20 photographers gathered outside a furniture store, waiting for Jackson to emerge.
Delossantos said word quickly spread that the paparazzi were waiting for Jackson, who emerged from the store with his three children, the whole family wearing breathing masks. Belossantos said his sister, Annette Villanueva of Merced, tooked photos and video of Jackson, who got into a black Suburban-type vehicle.
Jackson rolled down the window, waved to onlookers and in his high-pitched voice advised people to be careful as they approached to the vehicle to shake his hand.
"He was really nice," Delossantos said. "It was a quick shake, but we got to see him twice."
Delossantos explained that he watched Jackson go into another shop.
"I've always loved his music and performing," said Delossantos, 37, who recently moved to Modesto from Merced and is looking for work.
Delossantos said he's always been a Jackson fan and remembers wearing a "Thriller" shirt as a kid in school.
"He's the biggest star in the world," Delossantos said.
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