Merced County Sheriff's Office Seeks Information in July 2022 Homicide
October 8, 2025 – Merced County, CA – Merced County Sheriff's Office officials report that they are asking for the public's assistance in an ongoing investigation.
Shortly after 11:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 2nd, Deputies responded to several calls regarding a shooting on Santa Fe Drive near Franklin Road, just outside the Atwater, California, city limits. Callers reported that multiple shots had been fired by suspects in one vehicle, toward four occupants in another vehicle. The shooting tragically resulted in the deaths of 23-year-old Ruben Coronado and 24-year-old Eli Correa. An adult female was also critically injured.
Anonymous sources provided descriptions of two people of interest connected to this case. Forensic artists have created digital sketches based on this information, which are now being released to the public. Additionally, surveillance images of the suspect vehicle, along with a stock photo of the same make and model, are included in this release below.
Detectives believe that someone in the community may recognize these individuals or have information about the vehicle. Authorities urge the public to examine the images closely and report any information they may have. Even the smallest detail could help confirm what investigators have learned from sources cooperating with law enforcement.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Merced County Sheriff's Office at (209) 385-7445 or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers at 1-866-602-7463.
Source & photos: Merced County Sheriff's Office
