Crime
California police search for serial killer tied to 5 murders
The first victim was murdered in July and the latest one was killed last week
October 4, 2022 7:15am
Updated: October 4, 2022 3:35pm
California police are investigating five murders that took place in Stockton in July and are offering up to $85,000 for any information that could lead to a “person of interest” that was captured in a recent image.
In a grainy image released last Friday by Stockton Police Department, the person of interest is seen wearing dark-colored clothing and a hat.
All five victims were shot either in the early morning or late at night. The first victim was murdered in July and the latest one was killed last week.
The first murder took place on July 8, when the suspect killed Paul Yaw, 35, at around 12:31 a.m. near the 5600 block of Kermit Kane, according to police. On August 11, 43-year-old Salvador Debudey Jr. was killed at around 9:49 p.m. near the 4900 block of West Lane. On August 30, Jonathan Hernandez Rodriguez, 21, was shot at around 6:40 a.m. in the 800 block of East Hammer Lane. In late September, the body of Juan Cruz, 52, was discovered at around 4:27 a.m. on the 4400 block of Manchester Avenue. The latest victim was identified as Lawrence Lopez Sr., 54, who was fatally shot at around 1:53 a.m. on Tuesday near the 900 block of Porter Avenue.
Stockton Police Chief Stanley McFadden said investigators believe all five murders are linked “based on our investigation and the reports we are receiving.”
"But at this time, we don’t know if it’s a person or two or three, we just don’t know," McFadden added. "We believe there is some interconnectivity."
The police added that all victims appeared to have been ambushed. None of the victims were robbed and they do not believe the incidents are drug or gang-related.
The city of Stockton is putting forward a $75,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. Stockton Crime Stoppers is posting an additional $10,000 reward.
“We need YOUR help!!!! If anyone, has information regarding these investigations, call us immediately. Please remember our victims have grieving family members who need resolution. If you know something, say something,” Stockton police posted on Facebook.
