Wanted Man Sought by FBI for Deadly 2010 Shooting in Los Angeles County
Photo Credit: (https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/murders/cesar-villarreal)
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has intensified its search for Cesar Villareal. They placed him on the FBI’s Most Wanted list due to his alleged role in a 2010 fatal shooting in Los Angeles County. In response to these allegations, the FBI offers a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to Villareal’s arrest.
On May 21, 2010, Cesar Villareal allegedly committed acts of murder and attempted murder in Los Angeles County. This confrontation began in a store where Villareal, accompanied by his two young daughters, pointed a gun at two men following an argument. The men fled, but Villareal later located them a short distance from the store and, without his daughters present, allegedly shot both men, fatally wounding one and injuring the other.
Legal Charges
- Murder (California Penal Code 187 (a)): Defined as the unlawful killing of a human being or a fetus with malice aforethought. Villareal is specifically accused of deliberate intent to kill, categorizing the act as murder.
- Attempted Murder (California Penal Code 664/187): Involves direct, though unsuccessful, actions towards killing another person. The intent to kill is a crucial element of this charge.
- A federal arrest warrant was also issued by the United States District Court, Central District of California, on August 27, 2010, after Villareal was charged federally with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.
Sentencing Enhancements
- Use of a Firearm (California Penal Code 12022.53): Given Villareal’s alleged use of a firearm during the incident, if convicted, this could lead to significant sentencing enhancements. Such enhancements typically include extended prison terms due to the increased danger and premeditation implied by firearm usage.
- Gang-related Enhancements (California Penal Code 186.22): If evidence supports Villareal’s association with gang activities during the crime, this could severely escalate the severity of the penalties, reflecting the societal risks associated with gang-related violent crimes.
Potential Penalties
- First-Degree Murder: The penalties can range from 25 years to life in state prison, with the possibility of life without parole or the death penalty under aggravating circumstances.
- Second-Degree Murder: Generally results in 15 years to life in state prison.
- Attempted Murder: Can lead to life imprisonment with the possibility of parole, particularly if the attempt was premeditated.
Suspect Profile and Known Associates
Cesar Villareal, born on January 19, 1973, in Fresno, California, stands approximately 5’6″ to 5’7″ tall and weighs between 160 and 165 pounds. He has black hair, brown eyes, and is of White (Hispanic) descent. His occupation is a concrete mason and cement finisher. Notable identifiers include multiple tattoos, including red lips and the name “Ofelia” on his left breast, and extensive tattoos below his knees. His aliases include Moreno, Rat, Black Boy, Little Black Boy, Cesar Garcia, and Cesar Moreno. Villareal has connections in Baldwin Park, California, and potentially Oregon. He is believed to be traveling with Obdulia Medina, who is not a fugitive, her daughter Aileen Cecille Rey Diaz, and his own daughter, 18-year-old Ahtziri Citlalli Villareal-Medina.
Authorities believe Villareal is currently in Mexico. Considering the threat he poses, they consider him armed and dangerous. The public is strongly advised against approaching him and encouraged to contact law enforcement immediately upon sighting him.
