AVENAL, Calif. – Authorities in Kings County have made an arrest in connection with a recent homicide in Avenal. The Avenal Police Department responded to a call about a man lying in the road on Central Avenue on Saturday night. Officers found Avenal resident Rudy Moralez with a gunshot wound to his lower abdomen. Moralez was transported to Coalinga Hospital, where he later died.
The family of the victim expressed shock and grief, stating that Moralez did not have any known enemies and was loved by everyone in the community. They described him as a compassionate man who always went out of his way to help others.
The Kings County Sheriff’s Office reported that the suspect, Jose Valedez Jr., had a significant criminal history, including violent offenses. During a search warrant, authorities found ammunition and a handgun in Valedez’s possession. They also revealed that the victim and the suspect likely knew each other, as they lived close to each other and were both on foot at the time of the shooting.
The investigation into the homicide is ongoing, with authorities urging anyone with information to come forward. As the community mourns the loss of Rudy Moralez, his family has set up a GoFundMe page to help cover funeral expenses.
The Kings County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation and has dedicated significant resources to solving this case. Anyone with information about the crime is urged to contact Valley Crime Stoppers. The tragic loss of Rudy Moralez has left the community devastated, and authorities are working tirelessly to ensure justice for his family.