Oscar Novoa, a 28-year-old man from Santa Maria, California, tragically died on June 29, 2017, from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The incident occurred on the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) campus, specifically in Parking Lot 22 off Ocean Road. According to reports, the University of California Police Department (UCPD) responded to a call about a gunshot at approximately 10:30 p.m.
Upon arrival, officers found Novoa unresponsive in his white sedan with a firearm inside the vehicle. Despite efforts to revive him, including CPR and rushing him to Cottage Hospital, Novoa was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. He was not affiliated with UCSB, and no foul play was suspected in his death.
The investigation revealed that Novoa had called a friend to meet him on campus to say goodbye, indicating his intention to end his life. Witnesses reported hearing a gunshot and seeing a woman, who knew Novoa personally, reacting in distress at the scene. The area was secured with crime scene tape, and both UCPD and the Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Department conducted an investigation, which confirmed the death as a suicide. This tragic event highlighted the ongoing issue of mental health and suicide, with UCSB reporting similar incidents among its student population over the years.
There were no arrests, suspects, or litigations related to Novoa's death, as it was determined to be a case of suicide. The authorities did not find any evidence of criminal activity or involvement of other individuals in his death. The focus remained on understanding the circumstances leading to his decision and providing support to those affected by the incident. UCSB's Counseling and Psychological Services were made available to students and community members in need of support following the tragedy.
