On March 16, 2023, at approximately 6:07 p.m., the Delano Police Department responded to a report of a shooting and subsequent vehicle crash at the intersection of 8th Avenue and Ellington Street in Delano, California. Upon arrival, officers discovered 28-year-old Delano resident Daniel Rosiles suffering from gunshot wounds. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
In the ensuing investigation, Delano Police detectives conducted extensive inquiries, including interviewing witnesses, executing multiple search warrants, and gathering critical evidence. Their efforts led to the identification of two suspects: 21-year-old Carlos Elizalde and 18-year-old Anthony Vargas, both residents of McFarland, California. Authorities believe the motive for the shooting was gang-related.
On July 5, 2023, both Elizalde and Vargas were formally charged with the murder of Daniel Rosiles. At the time of the charges, both suspects were already in custody at the Kern County Jail on unrelated felony charges. The Delano Police Department acknowledged the assistance of multiple agencies in this investigation, including the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Crisis Response Team, Kern County Probation Department, Kern County Sheriff's Office, the Kern County District Attorney's Office, and other state and federal agencies.
The tragic death of Daniel Rosiles has deeply affected the Delano community. A GoFundMe campaign was established to support his family, highlighting his role as a loving father of two. Funeral services were held in April 2023, providing an opportunity for family and friends to honor his memory.
The arrests of Elizalde and Vargas mark a significant development in the pursuit of justice for Rosiles. The Delano Police Department continues to encourage anyone with additional information regarding this case to come forward, underscoring the community's role in addressing and preventing gang-related violence.
