Photo: Stock Image
Bloomington, CA – A significant development has occurred in the ongoing investigation of the homicide case involving the tragic death of 15-year-old Robert Plyley.
The suspect, identified as 19-year-old Israel Diaz, a resident of Bloomington, is now in custody after attempting to enter the United States. Diaz was arrested by the U.S. Border Patrol on Tuesday, April 25, 2023, and subsequently booked into the San Diego County Jail on a no bail warrant for murder. In the coming days, he will be transferred to the custody of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.
The arrest of Diaz was the culmination of intensive efforts by the Homicide detectives, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the Department of Homeland Security. Investigators had obtained a search warrant and a no bail arrest warrant, leading them to Diaz’s residence. However, upon executing the search, Diaz was not found, leading authorities to believe that he had fled to Mexico. Subsequently, coordination with relevant agencies and diligent efforts led to his capture at the U.S.-Mexico border.
Turning back to the initial incident, the tragedy occurred on Tuesday, November 1, 2022, at approximately 1:03 a.m., when deputies from the Fontana Sheriff’s Station responded to a shooting report in the 10600 block of Geronimo Avenue in Bloomington. Upon arrival, they discovered Robert Plyley lying on a driveway, having sustained a gunshot wound. Immediate medical aid was provided, and Plyley was swiftly transported to a nearby hospital. Sadly, despite medical intervention, Plyley succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.
The investigation, undertaken by the Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division, Homicide Detail, revealed that the incident took place during a large party at the location, which was marred by multiple altercations. It was during one of these fights that Plyley was tragically shot. At present, no arrests have been made in connection with the case. The authorities are actively seeking information and appealing to the public for their cooperation.
Detective David Carpenter of the Specialized Investigations Division is leading the investigation and is requesting the community’s assistance. Individuals who attended the party or possess any video footage related to the event, regardless of whether it captured the altercation or shooting, are urged to come forward. They can contact Detective Carpenter at (909) 890-4904 or submit videos to PAffairs@sbcsd.org. Anonymous tips can be reported through We-Tip at 800-78CRIME or www.wetip.com.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department remains committed to resolving this case and bringing justice to the grieving family of Robert Plyley. Updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
For further inquiries, please refer to Detective David Carpenter or Sergeant Troy Mooradian of the Specialized Investigations Division at (909) 890-4904.
Address/Location: SBSD – Headquarters 655 E 3rd St San Bernardino, CA 92408
Contact: Emergency: 9-1-1 Non-emergencies: 909-387-3700
Case No. DR#032203068 H#2022-145
Sheriff-Coroner: Shannon D. Dicus San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
