On December 9, 2023, at approximately 2:18 a.m., Winston-Salem Police Department officers responded to reports of gunfire and a vehicular collision in the 300 block of Barnes Road, where a vehicle had struck several parked cars. Upon arrival, officers discovered 21-year-old Mitzi Yareli Saldana-Clemente and 20-year-old Yahir Jimenez-Laredo inside the vehicle, both suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Tragically, both individuals were pronounced deceased at the scene.
Subsequent investigations led to the apprehension of four suspects: 18-year-old Ryan Anguiano Prudente and three juveniles, whose identities remain undisclosed due to their age. At approximately 5:30 a.m., officers located Prudente walking along U.S. 52 accompanied by two juveniles, with a third juvenile found hiding nearby. Evidence obtained by investigators linked all four individuals to the double homicide. Each has been charged with two counts of general murder. Prudente is currently held at the Forsyth County Detention Center without bond, with his initial court appearance scheduled for the following Monday. The juvenile suspects are also in custody, though further details about them have not been released.
The tragic deaths of Saldana-Clemente and Jimenez-Laredo mark the 45th and 46th homicides in Winston-Salem for the year 2023, reflecting a concerning increase from 35 homicides at the same time in 2022. This incident has prompted community leaders and residents to call for enhanced measures to address and reduce violent crime in the area. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shootings and urge anyone with additional information to contact the Winston-Salem Police Department or Crime Stoppers.
In the wake of this tragedy, family and friends have expressed profound grief over the loss of Saldana-Clemente and Jimenez-Laredo. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to assist with funeral expenses, highlighting the community's support during this difficult time. The campaign underscores the deep sorrow felt by loved ones and the broader community, emphasizing the need for collective efforts to prevent such senseless acts of violence in the future.
