Police in Santa Maria report first murder case in 2024

SANTA MARIA, Calif. – Santa Maria police reported their first homicide of the year after a large party turned deadly Saturday night.

At around 10:13 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 400 block of North Benwiley Avenue for a report of a shooting in front of a home.

According to SMPD, officers found two adult male victims with gunshot wounds near the home where the large party was taking place. The victims were transported to Marian Regional Medical Center for medical treatment.

Despite attempts by medical personnel to keep one of the victims alive, one man succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the hospital, according to SMPD.

However, the second male victim was treated for non-life-threatening injuries and is expected to make a full recovery.

So far, according to the SMPD, no arrests have been made in connection with the shooting.

The SMPD Detective Bureau and Crime Lab arrived at the scene and took over the ongoing investigation.

“Due to the sensitive nature of the investigation, only limited information is being released,” SMPD said in a press release.

SMPD is asking anyone with information regarding this case to come forward and contact Detective Swenson at (805) 928-3781 extension 1648 or the Communications Center at (805) 928-3781 extension 2277.

Anonymous tips can also be submitted to the SMPD tip line at (805) 928-3781 extension 2677 (COPS).