RIVIERA BEACH, Fla. — A tragic incident unfolded in Thousand Oaks on Wednesday evening when police responded to reports of gunfire, leading to the death of a local woman and a man who is now in critical condition under police watch. Authorities are pursuing first-degree murder charges against the 27-year-old man, who allegedly shot his girlfriend multiple times before attempting to take his own life.
At approximately 6:25 p.m., officers from the Riviera Beach Police Department arrived at the gated community after receiving multiple calls about seven shots being fired. Eyewitness accounts indicated that the shooter had also shot himself immediately after the altercation.
The suspected shooter, identified as Roberto Ernest Torres, and the victim, 29-year-old Faith Nelson, were both rushed to Saint Mary’s Medical Center’s trauma unit. Despite medical efforts, Nelson died from her injuries about two hours later, prompting authorities to gather more details about the confrontation.
Investigators revealed that Torres and Nelson had been in a tumultuous relationship for more than two years and lived together. Witnesses reported that the couple was seen arguing in their vehicle before the shooting. According to a security guard at the apartment complex, Torres allegedly shot Nelson numerous times after they exited their car, then turned the gun on himself. One witness recounted that Torres seemed determined in his suicide attempt, suggesting an intent to shoot himself again if not apprehended.
Earlier that day, Torres and Nelson had met with his mother, who was concerned after receiving troubling phone calls from her son. When she arrived at the scene at the gatehouse to investigate, both Torres and Nelson were present. In a disturbing turn, Torres reportedly dismissed his mother’s inquiries, insisting that it “didn’t matter” and revealing that he had a gun.
Witnesses confirmed that the couple’s last argument escalated just moments before the gunfire erupted. In the aftermath, Torres’ mother fled the scene after witnessing the shooting unfold.
As the investigation continues, Torres remains in the ICU, where he is being monitored by law enforcement. Detectives believe sufficient evidence exists to file premeditated first-degree murder charges against him as the case unfolds.
Officials are gathering further testimony to piece together the events leading up to this tragic shooting, which has left the community in shock.