Re-Opening of a 2012 Murder Case 

October 24, 2023 – Ventura County Sheriff's Office officials report that on October 26, 2012, at 9:47 P.M., Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Headquarter Patrol Deputies responded to a gunshot victim at the intersection of Cortez Street and Salem Avenue in the unincorporated area of El Rio.  When patrol deputies arrived, they located (V) Edward Velasquez who had sustained a fatal gunshot wound to the upper body.  Edward Velasquez was pronounced deceased at the scene and the Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled the death a homicide.

Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Detectives responded to the scene and began the investigation.  During the investigation, witnesses described the shooter as a 20–25-year-old, light complected Hispanic male, who was clean cut.  The shooter’s vehicle was described as a beige 4-door sedan.  Additional witness statements were obtained, and evidence was collected from the scene.  In 2013 the case went cold.

With advances in forensic technology over the past decade along with new information, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office is hopeful in identifying the suspect(s).   The re-opening of the case coincides with the 11-year anniversary of Edward Velasquez’ death.

Anyone with information regarding this crime is encouraged to contact Ventura County Sheriff’s Major Crimes Sergeant Jeremy Bramlette at (805) 384-4727. If you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).

Nature of Incident: Re-opening of a 2012 murder case.

Report Number: 2012-24083

Location: Cortez Street and Salem Avenue, Oxnard Ca. 93036

Date & Time: 10/26/2012 @ 9:47 PM

Unit(s) Responsible: Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Bureau

 Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information, which leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against the person(s) responsible for this crime.  The caller may remain anonymous.  The call is not recorded.  Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).

Source & photo: Ventura County Sheriff's Office