Richard Agpawa, a 41-year-old man from Oakley, California, tragically lost his life on January 13, 2025, in what authorities have classified as a homicide. The incident occurred just before 10 p.m. on Interstate 280 north of De Anza Boulevard in Cupertino, California. Initial reports indicated that Agpawa's vehicle had crashed into the center divide, prompting a call to emergency services.
The caller speculated that the crash might have been the result of a road rage incident or a high-speed race. Upon arrival, California Highway Patrol officers found Agpawa inside the vehicle with severe injuries from the crash. He was rushed to Stanford Hospital, where doctors later discovered that he had suffered a gunshot wound to the head. The Santa Clara County Medical Examiner’s Office officially ruled his death as a homicide.
Authorities believe Agpawa was shot shortly before his vehicle collided with the center divide. Witnesses reported seeing two vehicles speeding, but investigators have been unable to determine the exact circumstances leading to the crash. The CHP has not confirmed whether road rage or racing played a role in the incident. Additionally, details regarding how paramedics and officers initially overlooked the gunshot wound remain unclear. The condition of Agpawa’s vehicle was not considered pertinent to the investigation, according to CHP officials.
As of now, law enforcement has not identified a suspect or established a motive for the killing. The CHP has issued a public appeal for information, urging anyone who may have witnessed the crime or has relevant details to contact their investigative tip line. The case remains open, with detectives actively working to uncover new leads. A fundraiser was launched to support Agpawa’s family, indicating that he was on his way to work at the time of the incident. Authorities continue to seek assistance from the public in solving this tragic case.
