On June 19, 2024, at approximately 6:32 p.m., Long Beach police officers responded to reports of a person down near the intersection of Anaheim Street and Ohio Avenue. Upon arrival, they discovered 38-year-old Long Beach resident Josue Manuel Matos suffering from multiple gunshot wounds to his upper body. Officers administered medical aid until Long Beach Fire Department personnel arrived and transported Matos to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Through their investigation, homicide detectives identified the suspect as Aaron Garcia, a 25-year-old resident of Long Beach. On June 25, 2024, while assisting the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department with an eviction in the 400 block of Cerritos Avenue, officers located and arrested Garcia inside the residence. He was transported to Long Beach City Jail, where he was booked for murder and a probation violation, and is being held without bail.
Detectives believe that Matos and Garcia were engaged in a conversation before Garcia allegedly shot Matos. At this time, it is unknown whether the victim and suspect knew each other, and the motive remains under investigation. The case has been presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for filing consideration.
Authorities are encouraging anyone with information regarding the incident to contact Homicide Detectives Oscar Valenzuela or Leticia Gamboa at (562) 570-7244.
