Derek Leason, 63, a Newport Beach resident, was found dead inside his home on October 22, 2020, after officers responded to reports of gunshots in the 20000 block of Orchid Street around 8 p.m. The Newport Beach Police Department says the investigation quickly led to the arrest of 57-year-old Rodney James Hartzel of Irvine, who was taken into custody the following morning. Authorities have described the incident as isolated and said there was no ongoing threat to the community.

Police have not released a motive or detailed how Hartzel was identified as the suspect, nor have they disclosed whether there was any relationship between Leason and Hartzel. The criminal case against Hartzel is the focus of the matter; no civil litigation related to Leason’s death has been reported. If anyone knew Derek Leason or has information about his activities on October 22, 2020, please come forward.