The fatal shooting at the Santa Ana Cemetery may have been gang related

On Wednesday, June 24, 2020, at 6:31 PM, SAPD Officers responded to reports of a shooting with two victims down inside the Santa Ana Cemetery, located at 1919 East Santa Clara Avenue.

Upon arrival, officers located an adult male suffering multiple gunshot wounds. Orange County Fire Authority paramedics declared him deceased at approximately 6:46 PM. Officers located a second adult male, suffering a non-life threatening gunshot wound, in a vehicle attempting to the leave the cemetery. Paramedics transported him to a local trauma center for treatment.

During the preliminary field investigation, officers determined a large group, consisting of adults and children, assembled to honor the memory of a loved one on the anniversary of his death. At approximately 6:30 PM, two unidentified male suspects approached the group and fired multiple rounds from a handgun, striking the two men.

SAPD Homicide Section detectives responded and assumed the investigation. The identity of the decedent is being withheld pending identification by the Orange County Coroner’s Division and notification of next of kin.

The motive for the attack is unknown at this time; however, there is evidence to suggest a gang motivation. This case may be eligible for the SAPD Gang Homicide Reward Program.

Detectives encourage anyone who was present at the gravesite or any other victims or witnesses come forward and provide a statement.

Santa Ana Police Department Homicide Section (714) 245-8390

Orange County Crime Stoppers 1 (855) TIP-OCCS / 1 (855) 847-6227
https://occrimestoppers.org/