Full Notification

On Friday, September 9, 2022, at approximately 8:18 a.m., Turlock Police Officers responded to a report of a stabbing near the intersection of Lander Avenue and Bernell Avenue. 
 
Officers arrived on scene and located a 28 year-old Hispanic male adult who was suffering from life threatening stab wounds.  After immediate life saving measures were administered, the man was transported to a local area hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.
 
The initial investigation revealed there were three Hispanic adult male suspects who showed up at a liquor store, located in the 900 block of Lander Avenue, driving a black 2003 GMC Yukon.  Video surveillance obtained during the investigation showed the three men surround and target several men who were standing outside the store,  including the deceased victim.  After a brief altercation, the deceased victim ran across Lander Avenue, in an attempt to get away, however, he was being chased by two suspects.  One of the suspects was able to catch up to the victim and stab him at least once in the upper body.  All three suspects were seen fleeing the crime scene in a black 2003 GMC SUV, travelling north on Lander Avenue. 
 
Detectives responded to the scene to assume the investigation, working with Patrol Officers and Investigators with the Special Investigations Unit (S.I.U.).  The scene was processed and evidence was gathered. 
 
Detectives were able to identify and locate one of the involved suspects, within three hours of the initial call.  Manuel Maldonado, 29 years-old of Turlock was apprehended in the 600 block of Vermont Street at approximately 11:20 a.m., when he was seen driving the involved 2003 GMC Yukon.  Detectives are working to identify the two outstanding suspects.    
 
Chief Jason Hedden said, “Gang violence will not be tolerated in Turlock.  We have one suspect in custody and our Detectives and Special Investigations Unit will not stop until we have all of the suspects involved, in police custody.   Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of this morning’s homicide victim as they mourn the loss of their son and brother.” 
 
Although the motive is unclear, Detectives have preliminary information to suggest this is likely a gang motivated crime.  There is no indication that this was a random act of violence. 
 
Maldonado was interviewed at the Turlock Police Department then transported and booked at the Stanislaus County Jail on homicide charges. 
 
The Turlock Police Department asks that anyone with information about this investigation to call Detective Frank Navarro at (209) 664-7319.  You can also contact the Turlock Police Department’s Tip Line at (209) 668-5550 extension 6780 or email at [email protected]. 
 
The Turlock Police Department is an active participant in the Crime Stoppers Program.  Callers can leave an anonymous tip by calling Crime Stoppers at (209) 521-4636 and may be eligible for a cash reward. 
 
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This information is being released by Turlock Police Department Sergeant Michael Parmley.

Any media requests should contact:
Sergeant Michael Parmley
Office of Professional Standards
Turlock Police Department
Office phone - (209) 664-7345
Email – [email protected]