Ricky Perez, a 21-year-old resident of Tehachapi, California, was found dead on February 7, 2014. Local law enforcement treated the death as suspicious from the start, and investigators concluded his death was the result of foul play after interviews and forensic analysis pointed to a violent confrontation.

Several persons of interest were identified during the inquiry, and a primary suspect was later arrested and charged with first-degree murder. The case proceeded through a contested trial, with the prosecution relying on the evidence gathered during the investigation and the defense challenging that evidence. The court ultimately returned a guilty verdict and imposed a sentence.

Ricky’s family remained involved throughout the proceedings and took part in court sessions and community vigils as they sought justice and worked to preserve his memory. If anyone knew Ricky, saw him in Tehachapi around February 2014, or has information relevant to the case, please come forward.