Press Release: Cold Case Homicide Arrest
DATE/TIME: 9/24/25 @ 1230 PM
TYPE OF INCIDENT: Cold Case Homicide Arrest
LOCATION: 11000 block of Jackson Street, Castroville, CA
MEDIA CONTACT: Scott Davis, Acting Commander; Phone 831-253-6017; Email: davissy@countyofmonterey.gov
On August 15th, 2010, at about 3:17 AM, deputies were dispatched to the 11000 block of Jackson Street, Castroville, on a report of a juvenile male possibly suffering a heart attack.
Deputies arrived on-scene and located 3 victims with gunshot wounds. Deputies administered first aid while Fire and AMR responded. Two adult victims were transported to local hospitals via ambulance. The third victim, a 16-year-old male, was pronounced deceased on-scene.
Today, with collaboration between the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office, the Monterey County Cold Case Task Force, the Seaside Police Department, and with additional assistance from the Modesto Police Department, detectives were able to identify, locate, and arrest Stephen Vasquez in this case. Vasquez will be booked into the Monterey County Jail on charges of 187 PC – Homicide and two counts of 664/187 PC – Attempted Homicide.
Sheriff Tina Nieto stated, “Today’s arrest is a testament to collaboration, persistence of our detectives, and the unwavering commitment of this office to pursue justice – no matter how much time has passed. Cold cases leave lasting impacts on families and our community, and while nothing can erase the pain of loss, we hope this step provides a measure of healing. The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office will continue to stand with victims and their loved ones as we seek justice in every case.”
If anyone has additional information regarding this case, they are asked to contact Detective Richard Geng at 831-253-6029 or Sergeant James Day at 831-597-0065.
Additionally, they may submit information via the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office webpage by going to www.MontereySheriff.org and selecting the “Quick Links” tab and “Anonymous Crime Tip”. All information can be provided anonymously.