SantaMariaPolice
UPDATE – October 20, 2023
Case #SMPD23-0012011
On Saturday, October 14, 2023, at about 12:49 AM, Santa Maria Police Officers were sent to the 1300 block of Yale Place regarding a shooting. Officers responded and confirmed a shooting had occurred at a residence where an adult Halloween party was being held. One adult male victim was transported with serious injuries. Two other victims, one adult male and one adult female that were at party, later sought treatment for less serious injuries related to the shooting.
Detectives took over this investigation that has been continuous and ongoing. Subsequently, 27-year-old Santa Maria resident Oscar Erik Jimenez Ruiz was identified as the suspect and shooter in this case.
On October 20, 2023, at about 4:00 AM, the Santa Maria Police Department Detective Bureau, with assistance from the Santa Maria Police Department SWAT Team, conducted a search and arrest warrant operation in the 100 block of W. Park Street. As a result, Oscar Erik Jimenez Ruiz was taken into custody on a related arrest warrant.
Oscar Erik Jimenez Ruiz was booked into the Santa Barbara County Jail on his warrant for charges that include attempted murder and assault with a deadly weapon. Jimenez Ruiz is being held on $5 million dollars bail.
Investigators believe more witnesses still need to be interviewed related to this investigation. Partygoers and those with further information on this case are encouraged to contact Detective Juan Rubio at (805) 928-3781, ext. 1682. The Communications Center may also be reached at (805) 928-3781, extension 2277.
