On July 18, 2024, at approximately 6:48 p.m., deputies from the Kern County Sheriff's Office responded to reports of a shooting victim in the 1500 block of Mount Vernon Avenue in east Bakersfield, California. The victim, identified as 24-year-old Robert Lee Overdevest, had been transported by private vehicle to a local hospital prior to deputies' arrival. Medical personnel reported that Overdevest sustained major injuries, including a gunshot wound to the eye.
Despite medical intervention, he succumbed to his injuries on July 21, 2024.
Investigations conducted by the Sheriff's Office Homicide Unit, in collaboration with the Gang Unit, revealed that Overdevest had been involved in an altercation with three individuals shortly before the shooting. Surveillance footage from a nearby apartment complex between Quincy Street and Pacific Drive captured the incident. The footage showed a tan Toyota Camry pulling up behind Overdevest's pickup truck. As Overdevest attempted to maneuver his vehicle, the rear passenger door of the Camry opened, and two gunshots were fired, one of which struck Overdevest.
Through investigative efforts, the suspects were identified as 38-year-old Ashley Ruiz, also known by the alias "Princess Barbie," 22-year-old Rhys Casterline, and 24-year-old Gabriel Valle. Ruiz was apprehended on July 26, 2024, followed by Casterline on July 31, and Valle on August 1. Each was charged with first-degree murder, with additional charges for Ruiz, including possession of a firearm by a felon, and for Valle, including conspiracy and multiple firearms offenses. During questioning, Ruiz admitted to firing the shots, stating her intention was to scare Overdevest rather than to kill him. All three suspects were booked into the Lerdo Jail Facility and are being held without bail pending further court proceedings.
In the wake of Overdevest's death, his family organized a fundraiser to cover funeral expenses, expressing deep sorrow over the loss. Overdevest was remembered as having a heart of gold and a unique personality. Notably, his passing occurred exactly two years after his mother's death. In a final act of generosity, Overdevest's organs were donated, allowing him to live on through others.
