On May 11, 2023, at approximately 6:30 p.m., Vacaville police responded to reports of gunfire on the 100 block of Meadows Drive. Upon arrival, officers discovered 16-year-old Mateo Godinez-Vallejo from Sacramento suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite receiving immediate medical attention and being transported to a local hospital, Mateo was pronounced dead later that evening.
Investigations revealed that prior to the shooting, Mateo had been involved in an altercation with a 17-year-old male from Vacaville. During this confrontation, both teenagers sustained gunshot wounds. The 17-year-old suspect sought medical treatment for his injuries and was arrested on May 12, following his discharge from the hospital. He faces charges of murder and unlawful discharge of a firearm and is currently held at Solano County Juvenile Hall.
Further investigation led to the identification of another 16-year-old male from Vacaville involved in the incident. On May 15, this individual was arrested on charges of attempted murder and unlawful discharge of a firearm. He has also been booked into Solano County Juvenile Hall.
Mateo was a student within the Washington Unified School District, having attended River City High School, Yolo High School, and several elementary schools in West Sacramento. The district expressed that his presence would be deeply missed by the entire school community.
The Vacaville Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding this tragic event. They have urged anyone with additional information to contact Detective Meek at (707) 469-4810 or provide anonymous tips at (707) 454-5722.
