On February 10, 2023, a tragic shooting occurred at Atkins Nursery in Fallbrook, California, resulting in the death of 69-year-old Francisco Hernandez Mireles. Deputies from the San Diego County Sheriff's Department responded to reports of gunfire at the nursery, located in the 3100 block of Reche Road, shortly before 3 p.m. Upon arrival, they discovered Hernandez Mireles deceased inside a barn on the property, having suffered gunshot wounds to his upper torso.
Two additional victims were found just outside the barn: a woman in her late thirties, identified as the daughter of the suspect, and a man in his seventies. Both had sustained gunshot wounds to their upper torsos and were transported to a local hospital for treatment. They underwent surgery and were expected to survive.
The alleged shooter, 76-year-old Enrique Barajas, was located inside the barn and taken into custody without incident. Barajas, who is believed to be the father of the female victim, was arrested and booked into the Vista Detention Facility on charges including murder and attempted murder. The firearm used in the incident was identified as a .22 caliber rifle.
All individuals involved were reported to be employees of Atkins Nursery. The motive behind the shooting remains under investigation, with authorities continuing to gather information to understand the circumstances leading up to this tragic event.
