The Santa Maria Police Department is seeking the public’s help in locating a suspect wanted for a murder that took place in mid-May.
Alfredo Alaniz Jr., 21 of Santa Maria is suspected in a fatal shooting that occurred on May 16 in the area of Lincoln and Mill Streets in Santa Maria, according to Sgt. Andy Magallon.
The victim was Mario Angel Merino Gonzalez, 19, of Guadalupe.
Alaniz was described as a Hispanic male, 5-foot-10, around 210 pounds, with black hair and green eyes. Magallon added that Alaniz has an “S” tattoo on his right cheek and a tattoo of a ship on his head.
“Alaniz should be considered armed and dangerous and, if seen, the public is urged not to confront or attempt to apprehend him, but to contact law enforcement immediately,” Magallon said.
Anyone with information regarding Alaniz is asked to contact Santa Maria Police Detective Preast at 805.928.3781, ext. 1683.
During non-business hours or on weekends, the public can call 805.928.3781 ext. 2277, or leave an anonymous tip at 805.928.3781 ext. 2677.
— Noozhawk staff writer Jade Martinez-Pogue can be reached at jmartinez-pogue@noozhawk.com. Follow Noozhawk on Twitter: @noozhawk, @NoozhawkNews and @NoozhawkBiz. Connect with Noozhawk on Facebook.
