Update: Homicide Arrests 

September 16, 2025 – Merced Police Department officials report that on August 18, 2025, at 9:26 p.m., Merced Police Officers responded to a shooting at 314 W. 19th Street. Officers located 19-year-old Iran Hedrington suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Officers attempted life-saving efforts, but Hedrington succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

Merced Police Detectives took over the investigation and identified the suspects as Blood gang members Jalyl Slatton (22) and Elijah Garcia (19).

On September 3, 2025, several search warrants were served in an effort to locate both suspects. Slatton was located and arrested at his residence in Merced. Garcia was not located at that time and a warrant was issued for his arrest for murder.

On September 12, 2025, Elijah Garcia was arrested in San Jose with the assistance of the San Jose Police Department. Both suspects are now in custody for their involvement in this homicide.

Related: Merced Police Seek Public’s Help IDing Suspect Wanted for Shooting Death of Man on West 19th Street

The Merced Police Department would like to thank the San Jose Police Department for their assistance in apprehending Garcia.

This remains an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information related to this case is encouraged to contact Detective Saldivar at (209) 769-8959

Case #25-46535 – Homicide

Source: Merced Police Department