Community members are mourning the death of a United States Army veteran who was slain while performing yard work in his own home in California. Four people have been charged in connection with his killing.
The Long Beach Police Department released a news release the following day confirming the death of Mario Morales-Moreno, 51, at his Long Beach home on April 4.
At 6:44 p.m. that day, someone called officers to report a shooting. When authorities arrived, they found a male with gunshot wounds to his lower torso. Also responding, the Long Beach Fire Department transported him to a local hospital, initially classifying him as in stable condition.
A second man, Morales-Moreno, arrived at the site with a gunshot wound to his upper body, and the fire department pronounced him dead.
When murder detectives arrived, they discovered that suspects had shot many rounds at both victims. They don’t believe Morales-Moreno was the intended target.
Four suspects detained, charged
Long Beach Police Department Chief of Police Wally Hebeish revealed on Wednesday that, alongside Woods, authorities have apprehended three other individuals as suspects in the murder of Morales-Moreno through a shooting incident.
On Thursday, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced that charges had been filed against the four individuals for the death of Morales-Moreno and the attempted murder of four other people in Long Beach. The police had submitted their information to the district attorney’s office for filing.
Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón expressed his condolences for the untimely loss of Mr. Morales-Moreno, an Army veteran and father of two. He emphasized the senselessness of the tragedy and acknowledged the four other victims who are now dealing with the aftermath of this violent act. Gascón assured the public that his office is committed to holding the defendants accountable for their alleged actions and ensuring justice for all those affected by these crimes.
The district attorney’s office announced on Thursday that each person involved in the incident has been charged with one count of murder, four counts of attempted murder, and one count of conspiracy to commit a crime.
In total, the individuals who were apprehended comprise the following:
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- Jordan Omarion Stokes, 18
- Taylor Byron Woods, 20
- Tyrell DeShawn Louden Jr., 20
- Semaj Lamar O’Brien, 21
Suspects could face life in prison if convicted, officials condemn gang violence
The district attorney’s office stated on Thursday that the murder was committed with clear intent and premeditation. They also confirmed that both Stokes and Louden Jr. were personally involved in using a handgun during the crime.
The four individuals who were apprehended will face their arraignment on April 25th at the Long Beach Courthouse. They are currently being detained with bail set at a staggering $8 million.
If they are found guilty, they will be sentenced to life imprisonment.
Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson expressed his strong condemnation of gang violence in the community, stating that it has no place and must be vehemently denounced.
The violence this week was also condemned by Chief of Police Wally Hebeish.
According to a statement made on Wednesday, the Mayor emphasized that gang-related violence is unacceptable in any part of the city. He expressed his condolences to Mr. Moreno’s family and acknowledged that this heartless criminal act has had a lasting impact on their lives. Furthermore, he commended the relentless efforts of the investigators and the subsequent arrests of the suspects. This serves as a testament to the dedication of the city’s personnel in holding violent individuals accountable and removing dangerous firearms from circulation.
‘He is well loved by his neighbors’: Community remembers Army veteran
In a heartwarming Facebook post, one of Morales-Moreno’s neighbors shared an online fundraiser aimed at supporting his family. The post shed light on Morales-Moreno’s background, highlighting that he is a disabled Army veteran and a senior code enforcement officer.
“He had just a few years left until he could retire at 55,” shared the neighbor and Facebook user. “His wife, son, and daughter are left behind to cherish his memory. The entire neighborhood holds a deep affection for him.”
According to a friend and neighbor of Morales-Moreno, Mario was a beloved member of our North Long Beach community. He was known for his selflessness and willingness to assist anyone in need. Mario would often invite people into his home and took great pride in his beautiful yard and home improvements.
