Ronald Capotosto, a 71-year-old resident of Jurupa Valley, Riverside, CA, tragically lost his life on August 10, 2016. Capotosto was fatally shot near the intersection of Moraga Avenue and Linares Avenue, just outside the Jurupa Hills Country Club. The incident occurred around 6:30 p.m. when a gunman opened fire, missing his intended target and striking Capotosto instead. Capotosto, who was returning home from purchasing pool supplies, was an innocent bystander caught in the crossfire.
He was pronounced dead at the scene shortly after the shooting.
The Riverside County Sheriff's Department launched an investigation into the shooting, which led to the arrest of Raymond Fajardo, a documented gang member, two days after the incident. Fajardo was found in possession of a high-capacity magazine, which is illegal, and was arrested during a vehicle check near the crime scene. Investigators believe that Fajardo did not act alone and that other individuals may have been involved in the shooting. The motive for the shooting remains unclear, but it is suspected that the intended target was another man who was also injured in the incident but survived.
Capotosto's death had a profound impact on his family and community. His widow, Betty Capotosto, expressed the family's devastation and the relief that came with Fajardo's arrest, although it did not diminish their grief. Ronald Capotosto was a U.S. Army veteran and an active member of his community, involved in various organizations such as the National Association of Realtors and the Millennium Corvette Club. He was also a faithful member of Saint John's Catholic Church. His death left a void in the lives of his family, which included his wife, children, and numerous grandchildren.
The investigation into Capotosto's murder is ongoing, with authorities urging anyone with information to come forward. The Riverside County Sheriff's Department continues to seek justice for Capotosto and his family, working to identify and apprehend any additional suspects involved in the crime.
