On March 17, 2024, at approximately 11:53 p.m., Oxnard police responded to reports of a fight with possible gunshots in the 1000 block of Industrial Avenue. Upon arrival, officers found 35-year-old Yanelly Vargas unresponsive, suffering from a gunshot wound to her torso. She was transported to Ventura County Medical Center, where she succumbed to her injuries.
Investigations revealed that Vargas had been lured outside a bar by her ex-boyfriend, 36-year-old Jorge Alberto Garfias, and his current girlfriend, 33-year-old Margarita Jimenez. The couple allegedly assaulted Vargas and forced her into their vehicle. Approximately 15 minutes later, Vargas managed to escape, but Jimenez reportedly pursued and fatally shot her. The entire incident was captured on surveillance video.
On April 3, 2024, both Garfias and Jimenez were arrested without incident by the Oxnard Police Department's Special Enforcement Unit and a K-9 team. They were charged with murder and kidnapping, along with several special allegations and enhancements, including murder while engaged in kidnapping and personal use of a firearm causing death. Jimenez, with a prior felony conviction for assault with a firearm, had her bail set at $2 million.
Both suspects pleaded not guilty to the charges. As of April 5, 2024, they remained in custody without bail, awaiting further court proceedings. The case has drawn significant attention due to the nature of the crime and the prior relationship between Vargas and Garfias.
The Oxnard Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding Vargas's death. They have urged anyone with additional information to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation.
