On January 15, 2018, Rafael Cerda-Ramirez, a 26-year-old Hispanic male from Marion, NC, was found suffering from a gunshot wound in the parking lot of an IHOP restaurant located on Highway 70 SE in Hickory, NC. Officers from the Hickory Police Department responded to the scene at approximately 11:56 p.m. and discovered Cerda-Ramirez in critical condition.
He was immediately transported to Catawba Valley Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
The investigation into the death of Rafael Cerda-Ramirez revealed that he had been shot, but the circumstances leading up to the shooting remained unclear. The Hickory Police Department identified two white males as persons of interest in the case. These individuals were reportedly seen driving a small burgundy car and were present at the IHOP between 10:30 p.m. and midnight on the night of the incident. The police urged anyone with information about the crime or who had been at the IHOP during the specified time frame to come forward and assist with the investigation.
Despite the efforts of law enforcement, no arrests were made immediately following the incident. The investigation continued as authorities sought to gather more evidence and locate the two persons of interest. The case garnered significant attention in the local community, with many hoping for justice for the young victim and his family.
As of now, there have been no updates on any arrests, suspects, or litigations related to the murder of Rafael Cerda-Ramirez. The Hickory Police Department remains committed to solving the case and bringing those responsible to justice. The tragic death of Rafael Cerda-Ramirez serves as a somber reminder of the impact of violence on individuals and communities.
