On July 16, 2023, at approximately 11:36 p.m., Merced police responded to multiple reports of a shooting in the 1200 block of R Street. Upon arrival, officers discovered 47-year-old Merced resident, Damian (also spelled Damien in some reports) Wheaton, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite immediate life-saving efforts, Wheaton was pronounced dead at the scene.
Following an investigation, detectives identified 27-year-old Eruvey Deoro Muzquiz as the primary suspect in Wheaton's murder. Authorities believe Muzquiz fled immediately after the incident, and a warrant has been issued for his arrest. As of August 10, 2023, Merced police were actively seeking Muzquiz and requested public assistance in locating him.
The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and police have not disclosed any relationship between Wheaton and Muzquiz. The Merced Police Department continues to investigate the case and urges anyone with information to contact Detective Edwin Arias at (209) 388-7826 or via email at [email protected].
