On February 26, 2023, 41-year-old John Michael Peña was found deceased in the Pajaro River bed behind River Park in Watsonville, California. Responding to reports around noon, Watsonville Police officers discovered Peña with at least one gunshot wound. Detectives believe the shooting occurred the previous day, February 25.
The area where Peña's body was found is known to be inhabited by several dozen tents and makeshift dwellings, commonly occupied by homeless individuals.
Following the discovery, detectives conducted a thorough search of the riverbed for evidence. Despite these efforts, no suspects have been identified, and the investigation remains ongoing.
This incident marked the second homicide in Watsonville for the year 2023. Earlier, on January 22, Armando Saldana was fatally shot in an apartment complex on Sunnyhills Drive. The suspect in that case, 29-year-old Felipe Jimenez, was apprehended in San Jose and charged with murder. In contrast, Peña's case has not seen similar progress, with authorities urging anyone with information to contact the Watsonville Police Department at 831-471-1151.
Prior to his death, public records indicate that Peña had several encounters with law enforcement. In November 2019, he was arrested in Santa Cruz County for possession and transportation of a controlled substance, driving with a suspended license due to a prior DUI, and driving with drugs in his system. Additionally, in November 2022, he faced charges for possession of a narcotic controlled substance and probation revocation.
As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with Peña's death. The Watsonville Police Department continues to investigate the homicide and seeks assistance from the public to shed light on the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
