SantaMariaPolice
On Saturday, December 9, 2023, at approximately 2:26 PM, officers were sent to the report of a shooting near the intersection of Western Avenue and Agnes Avenue. Upon arrival, officers confirmed a shooting had occurred.
Officer located 15-year-old Santa Maria resident Jesus Cabrera Valverde down on scene with gunshot wound injuries. Medical aid was rendered to Valverde who was transported by ambulance to the hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries.
The Santa Maria Police Department (SMPD) Detective Bureau responded to this incident and took over the investigation that has been ongoing.
On Wednesday, December 20, 2023, at about 5:00 AM, SMPD Detectives and SMPD SWAT members with assistance from the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team and Investigations members conducted a joint warrant service operation. Search warrants were served at multiple residential locations in the City of Santa Maria related to this investigation.
As a result, a 17-year-old male juvenile was taken into custody on related charged. The male juvenile was booked into the Santa Maria Juvenile Hall on murder and gang enhancement charges.
Anyone with information should contact Detective Juan Rubio at (805) 928 – 3781 ext. 1682 or the Communications Center at (805) 928 – 3781 ext. 2277.
The SMPD Tip Line may also be reached anonymously anytime at (805) 928 – 3781 ext. 2677 (COPS).
