Shot in Beverly Hills: Hollywood Publicist Ronni Chasen Killed

Nov. 17, 2010— -- Authorities are searching for clues today after the fatal shooting of a long-time publicist who promoted and represented some of Hollywood's most famous celebrities and films.

Ronni Sue Chasen, 64, was shot five times in the chest before she crashed her-late model black E530 Mercedes Benz into a light pole in Beverly Hills early Tuesday morning, according to the Beverly Hills Police Department.

Chasen was driving home after attending the Monday night Hollywood premiere and after-party for the new movie "Burlesque," starring Cher and Christina Aguilera.

"She was at our premiere last night and so full of her trademark energy and love of life. We are heartbroken, shocked and completely devastated," said Amy Pascal, co-chair of Sony Pictures.

Shortly before 12:30 a.m., police received reports from residents who heard gunshots and a 911 call reported a single car crash just south of Sunset Boulevard.

Chasen was taken to Cedars-Sinai Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

Police are sifting through the information on computers seized from the Beverly Hills public relations firm she owned.

The reason for the seizure is unclear but Beverly Hills police said they had no reports of threats against Chasen or her company.

There was no known motive or suspect in the case as of late Tuesday.

Beverly Hills Police Lt. Tony Lee told ABC News Los Angeles affiliate KABC the shooting was out of the ordinary. "We don't have crimes like this in the city of Beverly Hills, so it is a surprise to us," he said. Police said this is only the third homicide in Beverly Hills this year.