A tragic event unfolded in Riverside County, California, when a gunman opened fire on passing cars, resulting in the death of a father. This shocking incident, captured on video, took place in broad daylight and has left the community in shock.
On a busy Monday morning, 39-year-old Julio Rodarte allegedly walked down a street in Riverside County and began randomly shooting at vehicles. Surveillance video captured the horrifying scene, showing Rodarte using what appeared to be a semiautomatic weapon. He fired at cars from close range, repeatedly pulling the trigger. At one point, he emptied an entire magazine, discarded it, and loaded another.
RELATED: Tragic Accident in Mexico: Woman Struck by Train While Taking a Selfie
The Riverside County Sheriff's Department responded to the scene during the morning commute. They found two people suffering from gunshot wounds and multiple cars damaged by bullets. Both victims were transported to the hospital, where one of them later died.
NEW: 39-year-old man starts shooting at random cars in San Jacinto, California, killing a father of four.
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) June 6, 2024
Julio Rodarte was arrested on suspicion of murder and 10 counts of attempted murder after firing off 30 shots & taking his clothes off.
The despicable act was triggered… pic.twitter.com/bUV7VRBLMs
The deceased was identified as 42-year-old Victor Hugo Leon, a husband and father of four. His wife, Griselda Zepeda, told KTLA that they had been married for 13 years. Leon was on his way home from his overnight job at a warehouse when he was fatally shot.
In the wake of this tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support Leon's family. The fundraiser, aimed at raising $20,000 for funeral expenses and family support, has already surpassed its goal, with donations exceeding $36,000.
Julio Rodarte, the suspected shooter, was arrested and has been charged with one count of murder and ten counts of attempted murder. The second victim is reported to be in stable condition. As of now, the motive for the shooting remains unclear, and police are continuing their investigation.
According to TMZ, California Governor Gavin Newsom's office releaseda statement, describing the incident as "a horrific and senseless incident, and yet another reminder of the heavy toll of the gun violence epidemic."
This tragic shooting has left a deep impact on the Riverside County community. As the investigation continues, the community rallies around Leon's family, offering support during this devastating time. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive issue of gun violence and its far-reaching consequences.