On April 29, 2023, at approximately 11:28 p.m., 17-year-old Yzabella Perez and her 18-year-old boyfriend were seated in a parked car outside her residence on the 34000 block of Princeton Drive in Yucaipa, California. An unidentified individual approached their vehicle and opened fire, striking both teenagers. They were transported to a hospital with life-threatening injuries; Yzabella succumbed to her injuries on May 3, 2023, while her boyfriend was later released from the hospital.
Yzabella was a senior at Yucaipa High School, having recently completed her high school credits. She was eagerly anticipating her prom and graduation, with plans to attend Crafton Hills College to pursue a career as a veterinarian. Her father described her as a "beautiful daughter with her whole life ahead of her," noting her deep love for animals and her excitement about upcoming life events.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department launched an investigation into the shooting, describing it as an isolated incident. Detectives have not disclosed a motive and are seeking information about a dark-colored four-door vehicle that may have been involved. As of now, no arrests have been made, and the suspect or suspects remain unidentified. Authorities have urged anyone with information to contact Detective Daniel Shelton of the Yucaipa Station or to provide anonymous tips through the We-Tip Hotline.
Yzabella's family has appealed to the public for assistance in finding her killer, expressing their grief and confusion over the senseless act. Her father implored, "Please reach out anonymously. This doesn't make any sense. They were kids. There is nothing they could have done in this life to warrant that kind of response." The community continues to mourn the loss of a young life with a promising future.
