SOLEDAD, Calif. — The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office held a press conference to provide an update on a double murder that occurred near Greenfield just over two weeks ago. The victims, identified as cousins Andres “Chavita” Garcia, 26, and Jack Canchola, 20, from Soledad, were found dead near the Salinas River at 41000 Los Coches Rd.
According to deputies, the cousins were confronted by at least two suspects as they were trying to enjoy time by the river around 6:45 p.m. The victims attempted to escape by driving away in their pickup truck, but they were pursued by the suspects. A call was placed by someone being chased by individuals with firearms in a light-colored four-door Sedan. The truck and the suspect’s vehicle were later discovered in a vineyard off the road, with the cousins found next to their truck. Despite life-saving efforts, both Garcia and Canchola were pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators described the murders as “execution-style” and believe it to be a case of mistaken identity. The sheriff’s office expressed that the victims were trying to avoid a confrontation and were “doing nothing wrong.” The investigation has revealed no evidence of any gang affiliation or criminal background in their history.
Both victims were involved in the community, with Garcia serving at church regularly and Canchola being a beloved member of the church as well. Their family members expressed their deep sadness and grief, with one of the brothers, Miguel Garcia, sharing the pain of the situation. Canchola’s brother, Jesus Canchola, described him as a high-functioning person with autism who was loved by everyone.
A $10,000 reward is being offered for any information leading to an arrest, provided by an anonymous donor. The sheriff’s office hopes to gather any information that may help in identifying the suspects responsible for this tragic double murder.