Raymond Xavier Matias, a 17-year-old from Salinas, California, tragically lost his life on October 9, 2022. Known affectionately as "Mundo," Raymond was a beloved member of his community, cherished by his family and friends for his kind and respectful nature. He was deeply involved in his Native American traditions and had a passion for science and football, particularly as a fan of the Raiders.
His untimely death has left a profound void in the lives of those who knew him.
On the night of his death, Raymond was attending a house party in Salinas when a fight broke out. During the altercation, he was shot multiple times and succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The incident was a devastating blow to his family, who described the day they learned of his death as the worst day of their lives. Raymond's mother, Marlene Marquez, has been particularly vocal about her grief, expressing how her world was shattered by the loss of her only child.
In the aftermath of Raymond's death, the Salinas Police Department launched an investigation that eventually led to the arrest of two suspects. A 16-year-old resident of Salinas and Mario Arriaga, a 19-year-old from Chualar, were apprehended and charged with Raymond's murder. The arrests were made possible through a combination of surveillance footage, community tips, and diligent police work. Both suspects are currently facing murder charges, with the juvenile being held at Monterey County Juvenile Hall and Arriaga at the Monterey County Jail.
Raymond's family has been actively seeking justice for his death, finding some solace in the arrests but acknowledging that nothing can bring their beloved Mundo back. They continue to honor his memory, with his mother asking the community to wear his favorite color, purple, on what would have been his 18th birthday. The family remains hopeful that the judicial process will hold the responsible parties accountable and provide a measure of closure for their unimaginable loss.
