San Diego, California — A 17-year-old boy is in custody facing murder charges for the shooting death of a 73-year-old man in City Heights. The incident occurred early Tuesday morning, drawing a swift response from law enforcement after a 911 call alerted officers to gunfire in the area.
Witnesses reported hearing a shot around 3:30 a.m. in the 4600 block of Olive Street. Upon arrival, police discovered Diosado Gumbayan lying in the street, unresponsive, with a person reportedly seen nearby. Despite efforts by first responders, Gumbayan was pronounced dead at the scene.
Acting Lt. David Garren of the San Diego Police Department indicated that the suspect, dressed in all black, fled the scene on foot, heading south into an alley off 46th Street. Officers conducted a search of the nearby canyon and streets but were unable to locate him.
Following an investigation, homicide detectives identified the minor as the primary suspect. Authorities apprehended him on Thursday near the intersection of Euclid Avenue and El Cajon Boulevard. He was subsequently booked into juvenile hall on charges of murder.
Details surrounding the circumstances leading to the shooting have yet to be disclosed, as police officials have not provided a motive for the attack. The inquiry remains ongoing as investigators seek to uncover more information related to this tragic event and any potential affiliations between the victim and the suspect.
Community members are left grappling with the implications of violence in their neighborhoods, raising questions about safety and crime in City Heights. As law enforcement continues their investigation, residents are urged to come forward with any information that might aid in understanding this heartbreaking incident.