On February 22, 2024, 25-year-old Chase Leland Gatson was found deceased in a vacant building located in the 9600 block of South H Street in Bakersfield, California. The Kern County Coroner's Office reported that Gatson had sustained an apparent gunshot wound. An autopsy was pending at the time to determine the exact cause and manner of death.
Prior to his death, Gatson had a history of legal issues.
In October 2022, he was arrested by the Kern County Sheriff for possession of controlled substance paraphernalia, receiving stolen property (motor vehicle), taking a vehicle without the owner's consent, and burglary. Earlier records from approximately 2019 indicate arrests for similar offenses, including possession of burglar's tools and vehicle theft.
As of now, there have been no public reports of arrests or identification of suspects related to Gatson's death. The Bakersfield Police Department continues to investigate the case and has urged anyone with information to come forward by contacting them at (661) 327-7111.
