On March 17, 2023, the Sutter County Sheriff's Office responded to reports of two bodies near a vehicle in the area of Kempton and Brewer Roads in Rio Oso, California. Upon arrival, deputies discovered 40-year-old Elk Grove resident Vicky Keovilayphone inside a blue Ford Explorer, and approximately 50 yards away, the body of 40-year-old Yuba County resident Derrick James Engelman. Both individuals had sustained gunshot wounds and were pronounced dead at the scene.
The discovery of the bodies prompted an immediate investigation by the Sutter County Sheriff's Detective Unit. Sheriff Brandon Barnes described the incident as a "tragic event" and assured the community of a diligent pursuit of answers. Authorities appealed to the public for any information that could aid in solving the case.
On May 2, 2023, the investigation led to the arrest of 49-year-old Dixon resident Fredil Donaldo Flores. Flores was charged with conspiracy and murder in connection with the deaths of Keovilayphone and Engelman. He was subsequently booked into the Sutter County Jail, with bail set at $1,000,000. Sheriff Barnes expressed gratitude towards the detective unit for their tireless efforts and acknowledged the assistance provided by the Yuba County Sheriff's Office, the Solano County Sheriff's Office, and the Dixon Police Department.
As of the latest available information, the Sutter County Sheriff's Office has not disclosed further details regarding the motive behind the double homicide or the relationship between the victims and the suspect. The investigation remains active, and authorities continue to seek information from the public to aid in the case. Individuals with relevant information are encouraged to contact the Sheriff's Detective Unit at 530-822-0210 or via email at [email protected].