On December 30, 2023, at approximately 9:14 p.m., officers from the Avenal Police Department responded to a report of a man lying in the roadway on Central Avenue, just north of Dome Street. Upon arrival, they discovered 50-year-old Avenal resident Rudy Moralez with a gunshot wound to his lower abdomen. He was promptly transported to Coalinga Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
In the ensuing investigation, the Kings County Sheriff's Office took over the case.
On January 2, 2024, they executed a search warrant at a residence in the 800 block of Dome Street in Avenal. During this operation, 51-year-old Jose Valadez Jr. was arrested on charges of homicide. Authorities also recovered a handgun and ammunition from the residence.
Sergeant Christopher Martin of the Kings County Sheriff's Office noted that Valadez has an extensive criminal history, including violent offenses, and is well-known to law enforcement. Investigators believe that Moralez and Valadez were acquainted, as the shooting occurred near both of their homes, and both men were reportedly on foot at the time.
The family of Rudy Moralez has been deeply affected by his untimely death. His daughter, Amber Moralez, expressed profound grief, stating, "It impacted my whole life; I don't think I'll ever be the same." His mother, Pamela Holmes-Smith, described the loss as senseless and is striving to understand and cope with his absence. Family members remember Moralez as a compassionate individual who was always willing to help others, making his death all the more perplexing to those who knew him.
As the investigation continues, authorities urge anyone with additional information to contact the Kings County Sheriff's Office or Valley Crime Stoppers. The community remains hopeful that justice will be served for Rudy Moralez.
