Update to homicide investigation.
SMPD Case Number SMPD23-0012257 
On October 21, 2023, at 0032 hours, SMPD officers responded to the 1000 block of North School Street for a report of a shooting. They located an adult male victim suffering from gunshot wounds. There were also three other victims who suffered gunshot wounds; however, their injuries were not life-threatening. Ultimately, the initial victim died as a result of his injuries, and the investigation has remained active.
On May 28, 2025, Santa Maria Police Detectives requested the assistance of the Kern County Sheriff's Department in arresting one of the suspects wanted on an outstanding homicide warrant related to this incident. Kern County Sheriff's deputies located and arrested the male in Bakersfield. The male was booked into Santa Barbara County Juvenile Hall.
The remaining two suspects were already in custody on unrelated charges. Those suspect have since been charged with the homicide and with a criminal street gang enhancement.
All of the suspects were juveniles at the time of the homicide. Accordingly, their names and identifying information are not being released at this time.
This investigation is still ongoing. We are requesting anyone with information on this case to call Detective Santiago at 805-928-3781 ext. 1362.
Lt. Van Meel
Address/Location
Santa Maria Police Department
1111 W Betteravia Rd
Santa Maria, CA 93455
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 805-928-3781