Driver Arrested at US Border for 2023 San Diego Homicide

Jose Campas detained as he attempted to cross into the U.S. from Mexico for his alleged role in the killing of Kevin Billingsley.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 5:50pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a single bullet casing on a dark surface, the harsh flash creating dramatic shadows and highlights to convey the gritty, investigative nature of the crime scene.The recovery of physical evidence like shell casings is crucial for investigators piecing together the details of a violent crime.San Diego Today

A 34-year-old man has been arrested in connection with a homicide that occurred in San Diego's Colina del Sol neighborhood in 2023. Jose Campas was detained as he attempted to cross into the U.S. from Mexico at the Otay Mesa Port of Entry for his alleged role in the shooting death of 35-year-old Kevin Billingsley.

Why it matters

This arrest comes over two years after the original incident, highlighting the persistence of law enforcement in tracking down suspects even in cold cases. The shooting occurred in a busy commercial area of San Diego, raising concerns about public safety and the potential for random acts of violence.

The details

On December 21, 2023, two San Diego police officers witnessed a shooting on the 4900 block of El Cajon Boulevard. An unknown suspect fired from the passenger side of a dark-colored SUV and sped away. Officers found Kevin Billingsley, a San Diego resident, suffering from at least one gunshot wound to the upper body. Billingsley was riding a bicycle westbound on El Cajon Boulevard when the incident occurred. Detectives believe there was some kind of interaction or argument between Billingsley and the occupants of the SUV prior to the shooting.

  • On December 21, 2023, the shooting occurred around 7:45 p.m.
  • On Tuesday, Jose Campas was detained at the Otay Mesa Port of Entry as he attempted to cross into the U.S. from Mexico.

The players

Jose Campas

A 34-year-old man who was arrested and booked into county jail for his alleged role in the 2023 killing of Kevin Billingsley.

Kevin Billingsley

A 35-year-old San Diego resident who was fatally shot while riding a bicycle on El Cajon Boulevard in 2023.

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What’s next

Authorities are still searching for the other suspect or suspects involved in the shooting. They are urging anyone with further information to contact the SDPD Homicide Unit or Crime Stoppers.

The takeaway

This arrest highlights the persistence of law enforcement in tracking down suspects, even years after a violent crime occurs. It also raises concerns about public safety and the potential for random acts of violence in busy urban areas like San Diego's Colina del Sol neighborhood.