An $85,000 reward is being offered by a California city in connection with the investigation of five recent homicides that are believed to be linked.
During the period between July and September, five men were shot dead early in the morning or late at night in Stockton.
Stanley McFadden, Stockton Police Chief, said investigators have reviewed many hours of surveillance footage and believe they have located a person of interest.
“Our detectives and task force officers have been working around the clock on these investigations,” McFadden wrote. “We are committed to protecting our community and solving these cases using all the resources we have available, including YOU. We Need Your Help!”
According to McFadden, the same person is believed to have committed the following crimes:
- The shooting death of a 35-year-old White man in the 5600 block of Kermit Lane at 12:31 a.m. on July 8.
- The shooting death of a 43-year-old Hispanic man in the 4900 block of West Lane at 9:49 p.m. on Aug. 11.
- The shooting death of a 21-year-old Hispanic man in the 800 block E. Hammer Lane at 6:41 a.m. on Aug. 30.
- The shooting death of a 52-year-old Hispanic man in the 4400 block of Manchester Avenue at 4:27 a.m. on Sept. 21.
- The shooting death of a 54-year-old Hispanic man in the 900 block of Porter Avenue at 1:53 a.m. on Sept. 27.
McFadden said each victim was shot alone at the time of his death.
In a letter to the police department on Friday, Stockton City Manager Harry Black announced a $75,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. An additional $10,000 in cash is being offered by Crime Stoppers, bringing the total reward to $85,000.
“I urge anyone with information regarding these investigations to call us immediately,” McFadden said. “Remember that our victims have grieving families who need resolution. If you know anything, please tell us.
To report a tip, call 209-937-8167, e-mail policetips@stocktonca.gov, or call Stockton Crime Stoppers at 209-946-0600.
McFadden concluded his statement by reminding citizens to remain vigilant, maintain good situational awareness, avoid isolated areas, and travel in well-lit areas. Additionally, he recommended traveling with a friend.
For more on this story, please consider these sources:
- Stockton police search for apparent serial killer tied to 5 murders ABC News
- Stockton police seeking person of interest in 5 recent homicides, reward offered Fox News
- Stockton Police Investigate Several Unsolved Homicides in the City NBC Bay Area
- Person of interest identified in ‘series of killings’ in Stockton KTXL FOX 40 Sacramento
- Serial killer may be carrying out Stockton slayings New York Daily News