Rudy Moralez, 50, was found with a gunshot wound to his lower abdomen on Central Avenue near Dome Street in Avenal on December 30, 2023, at about 9:14 p.m. He was taken to Coalinga Hospital, where he died of his injuries. The Kings County Sheriff’s Office later took over the investigation.

On January 2, 2024, investigators executed a search warrant at a residence on the 800 block of Dome Street and arrested 51-year-old Jose Valadez Jr. on homicide charges. Authorities recovered a handgun and ammunition at the home. Investigators say Moralez and Valadez were acquainted and that both men were reportedly on foot near their homes when the shooting occurred. Family members describe Moralez as compassionate and say his death has had a profound impact on them.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Kings County Sheriff’s Office or Valley Crime Stoppers. Does anyone in the area have details about that night or either man’s movements?