Suspect Arrested in March 23 Killing of Jess Gonzales
On Thursday March 23, 2017, Jess Gonzales (43) was shot and killed near North Main and Massa. Since that time, Salinas Police Detectives have been working leads, reviewing evidence, and contacting witnesses. That work led to the identification of 18-year-old Guadalupe Rosas as a suspect.
As the investigation continued, investigators developed sufficient probable cause to arrest Rosas for Gonzales' murder. Working with the Salinas Police Violence Suppression Unit, Rosas was tracked to a relative's home in the 1500 block of Vineyard Ave. in the City of Soledad. Working with the Soledad Police Department, our VSU and SWAT team surrounded the residence and told Rosas to come out. After a brief delay, Rosas emerged and was taken into custody without incident.
Rosas was later booked into Monterey County Jail for one count of homicide, associated gun and gang charges, and an outstanding probation violation warrant.
Commander Stan Cooper of the Salinas Police Investigations Bureau will make himself available at 1:30 today outside of the Department's main entry for any member of the media interested in conducting follow up interview.
***Previous Release***
The victim killed in the Thursday night, March 23rd shooting at Massa St and N. Main St. has been identified as 43-year-old Jess Carl Gonzales of Salinas. Gonzales was shot as he walked from the Shop N Save store located at 2143 N. Main St. For unknown reasons, a gunman approached Gonzales and shot him several times. It is unknown if there was some type of confrontation prior to the shooting. Stray bullets also struck the store but no other persons were injured. The suspect was described as a male, dressed in dark clothing. He was last seen running northbound on N. Main St.
The motive for the shooting is unknown but it is being investigated as gang related. This is the 12th homicide of the year in the City of Salinas.
The Investigations Bureau is asking anyone who may have seen the shooting or has any knowledge of the shooting to call Detective Dave Poulin at (831) 758-7270 or Detective Arlene Currier at (831) 758-7125. If you would like to remain anonymous, you can call the Salinas Police Department Anonymous Tip Line at 831-775-4222, or the We-Tip Line at 1-800-78-CRIME.