James John Kulstad II, aged 38, tragically lost his life on April 8, 2018, in Bakersfield, California. Kulstad was fatally shot in what has been described as a drive-by shooting while he was in the driveway of a South Bakersfield home. This incident shocked the local community, as such violent occurrences were uncommon in the neighborhood. Kulstad, a Bakersfield native, was known for his entrepreneurial spirit and love for surfing.
He had moved to La Jolla in pursuit of his dreams and had developed several innovative products, including skateboard trucks and bibs for infants. Despite his achievements, Kulstad's life took a dark turn in the years leading up to his death, as he struggled with substance abuse issues that began after he was prescribed pain medication following an accident.
Kulstad's murder is part of a larger, unresolved case known as the "Bakersfield 3." This case involves three individuals—James Kulstad, Micah Holsonbake, and Baylee Despot—who either went missing or were murdered around the same time. Holsonbake's dismembered arm was discovered in the Kern River, but the rest of his body has never been found. Despot, who was accused along with Matthew Queen of killing Holsonbake, has been missing since the incident. Queen faces numerous charges related to Holsonbake's death. The connection between these three cases has led to significant media attention and public interest, but despite ongoing investigations, no arrests have been made in Kulstad's murder.
The investigation into Kulstad's death has revealed more about his life and the dangerous circle of friends he had become involved with. Witnesses reported that Kulstad was not welcome at the home he was leaving when he was shot, suggesting that his associations may have played a role in his untimely death. His family has expressed their grief and frustration over the lack of progress in the case, as they continue to seek justice for Kulstad. The Bakersfield Police Department has not provided recent updates on the investigation, leaving many questions unanswered and the community still searching for closure.
