Homicide in Lemon Grove 

September 9, 2024 – San Diego County Sheriff’s Office officials report that on September 7, 2024, at about 11:34 p.m., Lemon Grove deputies were in the 3000 block of Lemon Grove Avenue when they heard several gunshots. While checking the business area, they were told there was a group arguing in the 3100 block of School Lane, in Lemon Grove. Deputies checked the area and located a 21-year-old, and Spring Valley resident, Diego Omar Valera-Trujillo suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Deputies immediately began medical aid until they were relieved by the Heartland Fire Department. Heartland Fire Department transported Valera-Trujillo to the hospital. Unfortunately, while at the hospital, he succumbed to his injuries. The cause and manner of death will be determined by the Medical Examiner's Office.

Sheriff's Homicide investigators worked tirelessly though the night and day and were able to identify Joshua Gonzalez (27), from Lemon Grove, as the suspect. On September 9, 2024, at around 5:30 p.m., Sheriff's Special Enforcement Detail arrested Gonzalez near his residence in the 8200 block of Lincoln Avenue, in Lemon Grove. Gonzales will be booked into custody for murder.

Sheriff's Homicide investigators are still working to gather more information to determine the circumstances and motivation behind this death. The investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call the Homicide Unit at (858) 285-6330/after hours at (858) 868-3200.  You can remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477.

Source: San Diego County Sheriff’s Office