3 Men Wanted in Connection to Merced Homicide
June 21, 2024 – Merced Police Department officials report that they are seeking the public's help in locating three men in connection with a recent homicide investigation.
On May 13, 2024, at approximately 8:00 P.M., Merced Police Officers responded to a shooting incident in the 1700 block of Conestoga Drive. Upon arrival, officers found Dennis Xiong, 36, who had suffered a single gunshot wound. Unfortunately, Xiong was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Through community collaboration and extensive investigation, officers have identified several individuals involved in this case. The police are now asking for the public’s assistance in locating three men. Adrian Rocha, 19, has been identified as the shooter and is currently wanted for homicide. Additionally, Aaron Ortez, 29, and Ramon Preciado, 29, who were present with Rocha during the shooting, are wanted for questioning in relation to this investigation.
Merced Police Detectives have been working diligently to resolve this case and provide closure for the Xiong family. The police urge anyone who may know the whereabouts of these individuals to exercise caution, as the firearm used in the incident has not yet been recovered.
If you have any information, please contact the Merced Police Department immediately.
Case Number: 24-24637
Merced Police are asking anyone with any information regarding this crime to contact Detective Edwin Arias at 209-388-7826 or by email at AriasE@CityofMerced.org.
Other ways to contact us or report crime include:
For any emergency call or text 911
For non-emergency call 209-385-6912
Anonymous Tip Line (Non-emergency) call 209-385-4725
Anonymous Tips online at http://www.mercedareacrimestoppers.org/index.html.
Some crimes can be reported online through the Merced PD website https://www.cityofmerced.org/departments/police.
Source & photos: Merced Police Department
