Fundraiser Created for Victim in Old Town Goleta Homicide

An online fundraiser has been set up to help support the family of a Goleta man who was murdered this past week.

Efrain Alvarado Morales, 57 of Goleta, was found dead near the intersection of Pine Ave and Carson Street in Old Town Goleta in the early morning hours of November 1, 2023.

Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Detectives responded to the scene and were able to arrest a suspect within a few hours.

Marino Luis Diaz, 42 of Goleta, was transported to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital with injuries. He was then charged with first degree murder for stabbing Morales to death.

Diaz is expected to be arraigned in court on November 6, 2023.

The family of Morales have created a GoFundMe account to cover impending expenses.

“On Wednesday November 1st we lost a great man. An Execellent and loving father, husband and a good friend to many. He was very loved and the pain we feel is unexplainable. He will be forever missed,” the fundraiser states.

Donations can be made here.

November 1, 2023: Homicide Investigation in Old Town Goleta