On June 11, 2023, a shooting incident occurred in the 800 block of South 21st Street, near Georgia Avenue, in Fort Pierce, Florida. The incident resulted in the death of 34-year-old Guillermo Barrientos Otero and the injury of a 38-year-old man. Police responded to the scene at 9:48 p.m. and found Otero unresponsive with multiple gunshot wounds, while the other victim had a single gunshot wound to his arm. Both victims were transported to HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital by St.
Lucie County Fire Rescue, where Otero later succumbed to his injuries. The 38-year-old victim was treated and listed in good condition as of Monday afternoon.
Guillermo Barrientos Otero was described as a family-oriented person who was deeply loved by his family. He was married to Selene Saucedo for six years and had an 11-year-old son from another relationship who lives in Mexico, along with his parents. Otero was known for his love of soccer and was working hard to support his family in Mexico. His brother, Juan Antonio Mata, expressed the family's devastation, particularly Otero's son, who was very close to him despite the distance.
The suspect in the shooting is identified as Edwin Ruiz-Avila, a 42-year-old Hispanic male. He is described as being between 5-foot-7 and 5-foot-9 inches tall and weighing between 140 and 150 pounds. At the time of the incident, Ruiz-Avila was last seen wearing a black shirt, khaki shorts, white sneakers, a rosary chain, a gold chain with a gold cross, and a black watch on his left wrist. Police have warned that he is believed to be armed and dangerous and have advised anyone who sees him not to approach him but to call authorities immediately.
The family of Guillermo Barrientos Otero is pleading for help in capturing the suspect. His widow, Selene Saucedo, and his brother, Juan Antonio Mata, have urged the public to come forward with any information that could lead to the arrest of Ruiz-Avila. They emphasized the danger posed by the suspect and the need for him to be apprehended to prevent further harm.
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, and detectives are actively seeking any information that could aid in the capture of Edwin Ruiz-Avila. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Detective Evens Saintilien or call Treasure Coast Crime Stoppers to report anonymously.
