AVENAL, Calif. – Authorities have taken Jose Valedez Jr. into custody on suspicion of murder, following a shooting incident in Avenal over the weekend. The Kings County Sheriff’s Office has announced that the arrest brings them one step closer to solving the homicide that occurred in Avenal.
The tragic incident took place on Central Avenue, just north of Dome Street, around 9:14 p.m. on Saturday, when Avenal Police Department responded to a call about a man found lying in the road. The victim, later identified as Avenal resident Rudy Moralez, had sustained a gunshot wound to his lower abdomen and was rushed to Coalinga Hospital, where he tragically succumbed to his injuries.
Family members of the victim, including his daughter Amber Moralez, expressed shock and devastation at the senseless loss of their loved one. According to family members, Moralez was known for his kindness and dedication to helping others, and they were at a loss to understand why anyone would commit such a violent act against him.
Authorities revealed that Valedez has a lengthy criminal history, including past arrests for violent offenses. During the execution of a search warrant, law enforcement officers recovered ammunition and a handgun in connection with the case. The investigation is ongoing, and the Kings County Sheriff’s Office has requested anyone with information concerning the crime to contact Valley Crime Stoppers.
The tragedy has left the community in mourning, with loved ones remembering Moralez as a selfless individual who always went out of his way to help others. The family has set up a GoFundMe page to help with funeral expenses, and members of the community are urged to contribute.
The Kings County Sheriff’s Office emphasized that the investigation is still underway, with detectives committing extensive resources to bring the perpetrator to justice. As the community mourns the loss of a beloved member, they remain hopeful that justice will be served for Rudy Moralez. If you have any information regarding this crime, please contact Valley Crime Stoppers at (559) 498-STOP.