CHULA VISTA, Calif. – A suspect has been apprehended by Chula Vista Police in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred late Saturday night at the intersection of Center Street and Third Street in the city.
Authorities were alerted to the incident at 11:17 p.m. on Saturday, after receiving reports of a shooting involving one individual on Center Street near Third Avenue, according to the Chula Vista Police Department. Prior to the shooting, a physical altercation had taken place between the shooter and the victim, as noted by CVPD.
Upon arrival, first responders discovered a 36-year-old man from San Diego inside a truck with multiple gunshot wounds to his upper body. Despite their efforts to administer life-saving measures before paramedics arrived, the victim succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital. The victim’s identity has not yet been disclosed.
Based on witness statements, law enforcement officials were able to ascertain that the suspects had fled the scene in an older model white pickup truck with distinctive markings.
Shortly after midnight, a patrolling officer spotted a vehicle matching the description provided by witnesses heading westbound on H Street in Chula Vista. Subsequently, officers stopped the vehicle and detained two occupants who fit the descriptions given by witnesses, as announced by the police.
One of the occupants, identified as 32-year-old San Diego resident Christian Benavides, was taken into custody by CVPD. Authorities have charged him, including murder, and he has been booked into the San Diego County Jail.
Police continue to actively investigate the shooting incident, gathering evidence and conducting interviews with witnesses to piece together the events leading up to the altercation. Anyone with information pertaining to the case is encouraged to reach out to San Diego County Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477 or submit tips anonymously either online or through the P3tips mobile application.