2 Arrested in Fatal Shooting of Teen in Moreno Valley

Avon Owens and a minor suspect were taken into custody following a series of search and arrest warrants.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 4:07am

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An extreme close-up of a spent bullet casing on a dark surface, the harsh flash creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic that conceptually represents the gravity of a fatal shooting incident.A recent spate of youth gun violence in Moreno Valley has left the community searching for solutions to address the underlying issues.Hemet Today

Two 18-year-olds have been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of a 16-year-old boy in Moreno Valley, California last December. Avon Owens and another Moreno Valley resident who was a minor at the time were taken into custody after a coordinated operation involving multiple law enforcement agencies.

Why it matters

Violent crimes involving young suspects are concerning for the local community, raising questions about youth violence, access to firearms, and the effectiveness of the criminal justice system in addressing these issues.

The details

On December 30, 2025, deputies responded to a report of an assault with a deadly weapon in the 22000 block of Town Circle in Moreno Valley. They found a 16-year-old boy suffering from a gunshot wound who was pronounced dead at the scene despite lifesaving efforts. Avon Owens and the other minor suspect were arrested on suspicion of murder and use of a firearm in the commission of a murder.

  • On December 30, 2025, deputies responded to the shooting incident at 7:38 p.m.
  • On April 12, 2026, Avon Owens and the other minor suspect were arrested following a series of search and arrest warrants.

The players

Avon Owens

An 18-year-old resident of Moreno Valley who was arrested on suspicion of murder and use of a firearm in the commission of a murder.

Riverside County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that investigated the shooting incident and made the arrests.

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What’s next

The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, and the suspects are expected to face charges in court.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the need for continued efforts to address youth violence and gun crime in the Moreno Valley community, including potential policy changes, community outreach, and improved access to resources for at-risk youth.