Cold Case Arrest: 1998 Turlock Homicide 

October 17, 2025 – Turlock Police Department officials report that after more than 27 years, the Turlock Police Department has made an arrest in a cold case homicide dating back to 1998.

On June 2, 1998, 19-year-old Alma Peralta was shot and killed in the 600 block of Angelus Street in Turlock. A second victim was also shot but survived. Detectives determined the shooting stemmed from a personal dispute that escalated into violence.

Through the initial investigation, José Luis Villa, now 58, was identified as one of the suspects responsible. A warrant for his arrest was issued in 2011, but Villa remained at large for more than a decade while living outside of the country in Mexico.

Earlier this month, a Turlock Police Department dispatcher conducting a system audit discovered new information linking Villa to an updated address in the area. Detectives immediately began coordinating follow-up efforts, and on October 13, 2025, Villa was located and arrested in the 3000 block of Countryside Drive after officers conducted a traffic stop. Villa was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Facility for murder and attempted murder charges.

This arrest represents the unwavering dedication of our officers, dispatchers, analysts, and investigators who worked together to bring closure to a case that has spanned nearly three decades. The Turlock Police Department remains committed to seeking justice for victims and their families, no matter how much time has passed.

If you have information related to this case, please contact Sgt. Hernandez at (209) 668-6541 or dhernandez@turlock.ca.us.

Source: Turlock Police Department