On February 11, 2024, at approximately 2:07 a.m., Ventura Police Department responded to multiple 911 calls reporting gunshots near Oak and Main Streets in downtown Ventura, California. Upon arrival, officers discovered 20-year-old Anthony Castañon of Santa Paula with severe injuries. He was transported to Ventura County Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.
In addition to Castañon, two other individuals sustained critical injuries from the shooting: a 24-year-old man from Oxnard and a 17-year-old male from Santa Paula. Both were taken to Community Memorial Hospital by private vehicles before being transferred to Ventura County Medical Center, where they remained in critical but stable condition.
Investigators believe the incident may be gang-related. A 17-year-old male juvenile from Santa Paula was arrested in connection with Castañon's death. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities encourage anyone with information to contact Detective Alberto Tovar at 805-339-4462.
Castañon was born on June 15, 2003, in Las Vegas, Nevada, to parents Dora Arevalo Villanueva and Leonel Castañon. He resided in Camarillo, California, and enjoyed playing basketball and baseball, off-roading, going to the beach, and spending time with family and friends, especially his brothers. He is survived by his parents, siblings, grandparents, and numerous nephews and cousins.
In the wake of his tragic passing, a GoFundMe campaign was established by his cousin, Jessica Meza, to assist the family with funeral expenses and related needs. The community has been invited to contribute and support the family during this difficult time.
