2 Arrested in Fatal Long Beach Shooting

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Two people, Josh Porras and Maria Gomez, were arrested on Thursday in connection with the fatal shooting of a 32-year-old man in Long Beach on January 12. The victim, Steven Vejar, was found with a gunshot wound near the Union Pacific Railroad crossing and later died at the hospital. The motive for the shooting remains unclear, and police are urging anyone with information to come forward.

Why it matters

Violent crimes like this fatal shooting are concerning for the Long Beach community, raising questions about public safety and the need for effective law enforcement. The arrests of the two suspects may provide some closure for the victim's family and help address any ongoing threats to the neighborhood.

The details

Officers responded to reports of shots fired in the 2300 block of East Artesia Boulevard on January 12 and found the victim, Steven Vejar, suffering from a gunshot wound. Vejar was taken to a hospital where he later died. Authorities arrested Josh Porras, 50, and Maria Gomez, 41, both of Long Beach, on Thursday in the 5500 block of Linden Avenue. Both suspects were booked on suspicion of murder and are being held on $2 million bail.

• On January 12, officers responded to reports of shots fired in the 2300 block of East Artesia Boulevard.
• On January 12, the victim, Steven Vejar, was found with a gunshot wound and later died at the hospital.
• On February 6, Josh Porras and Maria Gomez were arrested in connection with the shooting.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The judge will determine if Porras and Gomez will be granted bail at their upcoming court hearing.