September 8, 2026 – Monterey County Sheriff’s Office officials report that they have identified a suspect and made 
an arrest in connection with the homicide that occurred early Sunday morning in the community of Castroville.
On September 6, 2026, just after 2:00 a.m., deputies responded to a report of a stabbing in the area of Merritt Street and Preston Street in Castroville. Responding deputies located a person suffering from an apparent stab wound. Fire and ambulance personnel provided lifesaving care, and the victim was transported to a local hospital. Despite these efforts, the victim later died from his injuries.
The victim has been identified as 30-year-old Fernando Flores Ruiz of Seaside.
As detectives continued their investigation, they identified 28-year-old Robert Lee Jeffrey of Monterey as a suspect in the homicide.
At approximately 5:00 p.m. on September 6, 2026, detectives observed Jeffrey in the 400 block of Hannon Avenue in Monterey. Jeffrey was taken into custody without incident.
Jeffrey was subsequently booked into the Monterey County Jail for Penal Code 187(a), Murder. His bail was set at $1,020,000.
This remains an active and ongoing investigation. Detectives continue to gather evidence and are asking anyone who may have witnessed or heard anything related to the incident to contact the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office.
Related: Monterey County Sheriff Seeks Witnesses to Stabbing in Castroville Homicide
Investigators are also asking residents and businesses in and around the area of Merritt Street and Preston Street to review surveillance cameras, doorbell cameras, or other video footage that may have captured activity related to this incident. Even footage that may not initially appear significant could assist investigators.
Anyone with information or potentially relevant video footage is asked to contact Detective Jesus Reyes at 831-755-3805.
No additional information will be released at this time as detectives continue their investigation.
Source & photo: Monterey County Sheriff’s Office
