In the early hours of August 18, 2024, Banning police responded to a rollover traffic collision in the 5000 block of West Wilson Street. Upon arrival, officers discovered two occupants: a man and a woman. The man, identified as 33-year-old Banning resident Ivan Topete, had sustained a gunshot wound. Both individuals were transported to a local hospital, where Topete succumbed to his injuries.
Investigators determined that the shooting occurred earlier that morning in the 600 block of West King Street. Through their investigation, they identified two suspects: 37-year-old Viviana Maldonado and 30-year-old Angel De Jesus Barreras, both residents of Banning. The suspects are considered armed and dangerous, and their whereabouts remain unknown. Authorities have urged them to surrender and have requested that anyone with information contact the Banning Police Department Detective Bureau at 951-922-3170.
The investigation revealed that Topete was involved in a confrontation with Maldonado and Barreras on West King Street, during which he was shot. Despite his injuries, Topete managed to drive nearly three miles with a female passenger before losing control of his vehicle on West Wilson Street, where it collided with several parked cars and overturned. The female passenger sustained injuries ranging from minor to moderate and was hospitalized in recovery.
As of December 26, 2024, Maldonado and Barreras remain at large. The Banning Police Department continues to seek assistance from the public in locating the suspects. Community members with any information are encouraged to come forward to aid in the apprehension of these individuals.
