On November 28, 2024, at approximately 2:00 a.m., 22-year-old Anthony Calderon was fatally shot outside an apartment complex near Fedora Avenue and Pleasant Street in Fresno, California. Calderon and two companions—a 28-year-old man and a 23-year-old man—were reportedly smoking a cigarette when they were approached by a group of individuals who opened fire, discharging over 50 rounds. Calderon sustained a fatal gunshot wound to the torso and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The 28-year-old man suffered a gunshot wound to his lower body and was transported to a hospital in critical but stable condition, while the 23-year-old man escaped unharmed.
Fresno Police Lieutenant Paul Cervantes indicated that the victims were not affiliated with any gangs and were simply "minding their own business" at the time of the attack. The assailants fired multiple types of ammunition, suggesting the involvement of at least three different firearms. Despite the extensive gunfire, no suspects have been identified or apprehended. The investigation has been hampered by the lack of surveillance footage, as nearby businesses were closed for the Thanksgiving holiday. Authorities are urging residents in the area to review any security footage from that time and to report any unfamiliar individuals or vehicles.
In the wake of Calderon's death, his family and the local community have expressed profound grief. His aunt, Alyssa Tellez, lamented that future Thanksgiving celebrations would be irrevocably marred by the tragedy. In a show of solidarity, local food vendors who had worked alongside Calderon's mother organized a fundraising event to support the grieving family. The vendors set up an impromptu market, with all proceeds dedicated to assisting Calderon's loved ones during this difficult time.
As of now, the motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and the perpetrators are still at large. The Fresno Police Department continues to investigate and has appealed to the public for any information that could lead to the identification and arrest of those responsible for Calderon's death. This incident marks the 28th homicide in Fresno for the year 2024, a slight decrease from the 32 homicides recorded by the same time in the previous year.
