On January 27, 2023, 32-year-old San Diego resident Raul Rojas Valdez was tragically killed during a series of random shootings that unfolded across San Diego County. The violent spree began around 8:07 p.m. in Spring Valley, where the assailant fired at an individual but did not cause any injuries. Shortly thereafter, at approximately 8:26 p.m., the shooter targeted four teenagers near a trolley stop on Akins Avenue in the Encanto neighborhood, injuring two 15-year-old boys who were
subsequently hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries.
The violence escalated at 9:17 p.m. in the Bay Terraces area, specifically in the 1800 block of Manzana Way, where Valdez and another man were attacked. Valdez sustained multiple gunshot wounds and sharp force injuries throughout his body and was pronounced dead at the scene. The other victim, a 34-year-old man, survived the assault after receiving medical attention.
Authorities quickly identified and apprehended the suspect, 22-year-old Jaime Gonzalez of Lemon Grove, later that evening. Gonzalez was found in possession of a semi-automatic 9mm handgun, believed to be an untraceable "ghost gun." He was arrested without incident and subsequently charged with one count of murder, five counts of attempted murder, and additional firearms-related offenses.
Investigations revealed that Gonzalez acted alone, selecting victims at random without any apparent connection between the groups targeted. He approached each group on foot after driving to different locations, opening fire without provocation. In December 2024, Gonzalez was convicted of multiple felony charges, including first-degree murder and premeditated attempted murder, for his actions during the shooting spree.
The tragic death of Raul Rojas Valdez and the injuries sustained by others during this senseless act of violence have had a profound impact on the San Diego community, highlighting the devastating consequences of random acts of gun violence.
