Photo: Image of crime scene | Salinas PD
Salinas Police Officers responded to a ShotSpotter notification on Saturday, December 30th, 2023, indicating multiple rounds fired in the vicinity of Garner Ave. and Atlantic St. This alert was swiftly followed by several 911 calls reporting a shooting victim at the scene. Upon arrival, patrol officers discovered Jesus Garcia suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite attempts to administer lifesaving measures, Garcia succumbed to his injuries.
Garcia, who was not affiliated with any gangs and possessed no criminal record, appeared to have been targeted indiscriminately in what authorities have deemed a senseless act of violence.
Following an extensive investigation spanning several months, Salinas Police investigators were able to identify Jesus Saldana, a 20-year-old known gang member, as one of the suspects implicated in Garcia’s murder. On February 24th, 2024, members of the Salinas Police SWAT team, Violence Suppression Task Force, and Detectives executed a search warrant at a residence located in the 900 block of Acosta Plaza. Saldana was subsequently apprehended and arrested on charges of murder.
Salinas Police urge anyone with pertinent information regarding this incident to contact Detective Miller at 831-758-7954. Alternatively, individuals wishing to provide information anonymously may do so by contacting the Salinas Police Department’s anonymous tip line at 831-775-4222.
