Murder Charges Filed Against Suspects in Southern California Gang Killing

Authorities have arrested a man and a woman from Orange County in connection with a gang-related homicide that took place in Santa Ana last year, officials announced on Tuesday.

The incident occurred on Aug. 26, 2024, when Santa Ana Police Department (SAPD) officers responded to a shooting near 810 South Townsend Street at approximately 3:30 p.m. Upon arrival, officers found 32-year-old Erick Alegria, a Santa Ana resident, suffering from a gunshot wound.

Despite efforts by Orange County Fire Authority paramedics to revive him, Alegria was pronounced dead at the scene.

Suspects Identified and Arrested

At the time of the shooting, authorities reported that the suspects had fled in a silver Honda Accord EX sedan (model years 2013-2016) with a sunroof, 10-spoke wheels, and temporary California plates.

After months of investigation, detectives identified 28-year-old Santino Javier Fausto and 26-year-old Stefany Vuelvas, both from Santa Ana, as the primary suspects.

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According to police, the shooting was gang-related. Investigators allege that Fausto and Vuelvas drove into a rival gang’s territory, where Fausto exited the vehicle and opened fire on someone he believed to be a rival gang member before escaping.

On Feb. 12, officers executed multiple search warrants, leading to the arrest of both suspects.

Charges Filed

The Orange County District Attorney’s Office has filed murder charges against Fausto and Vuelvas, along with additional charges related to firearms and gang activity.

Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact SAPD’s Homicide Section Detectives at 714-245-8390. Anonymous tips can also be provided through the Orange County Crime Stoppers Hotline at 855-TIP-OCCS.

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Lailyah Duncan

Lailyah Duncan is an insightful writer at The Chieftain Spear, where she explores themes of culture, resilience, and community through compelling storytelling. Passionate about bringing diverse perspectives to light, Lailyah's work reflects a deep commitment to empowering voices and fostering meaningful conversations. With a talent for weaving narrative and purpose, she continues to inspire her readers with thought-provoking articles that celebrate heritage and advocate for positive change.

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