On June 27, 2023, at approximately 11:04 a.m., 35-year-old Cedric DeShawn Cruz was fatally shot in front of a residence on the 3200 block of 40th Street in San Diego's City Heights neighborhood. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots and observed a bystander administering CPR to Cruz before emergency responders arrived. Despite being transported to a local hospital, Cruz succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at 11:37 a.m.
Investigations by the San Diego Police Department revealed that Cruz was confronted by a suspect described as a youthful-appearing Black male, possibly between 15 and 17 years old, wearing a blue hooded sweatshirt. The suspect fled the scene on foot before police arrived. Detectives later identified 20-year-old Michael Hall as the primary suspect in the case. An arrest warrant was issued, and on June 30, 2023, Hall was apprehended by the Glendale Police Department in Arizona. Efforts were made to extradite Hall to San Diego to face charges related to the homicide.
The relationship between Cruz and Hall remains unclear, with investigators indicating that there may have been some connection between the two, though the exact nature of their association has not been determined. The San Diego Police Department continues to encourage anyone with additional information about the incident to contact their Homicide Unit or Crime Stoppers.
Cruz's death marked a tragic loss for his family and the local community. Born on May 15, 1988, in San Diego, he was known for his vibrant personality and deep commitment to family. He is survived by his parents, siblings, nieces, and nephews, all of whom remember him fondly for his humor, opinions, and the love he shared with those around him.
