Introduction to the Incident
Three suspects, including two juveniles, were arrested following a gang-related group assault.
Suspect Identification
The suspects were identified as Joel Alonzo, 24, of Fillmore, and two teens aged 16 and 17, according to the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office.
Incident Details
On March 7, deputies received reports of a large group fight involving 15-20 people on the 800 block of Edison Lane in Fillmore at 5 p.m.
By the time deputies arrived, the suspects had fled. Authorities learned they were affiliated with a Fillmore street gang. While investigating, deputies found probable cause to arrest the suspects for gang-related crimes.
Arrest and Search
Later that day around 6:14 p.m., authorities located four people who were allegedly involved in the group fight.
As deputies approached them, they fled the area on foot. Two people — Joel Alonzo and a teen suspect — were quickly apprehended while the other two suspects fled into nearby orchards.
An extensive search was conducted with help from the Sheriff’s Air Unit, West County Special Enforcement Unit, Fillmore Patrol, Headquarters Patrol and Moorpark Patrol.
Outcome of the Search
At around 6:52 p.m., a third suspect, a juvenile, was found hiding under a chicken coop where he was arrested. Despite a continued ground and aerial search, the fourth suspect evaded authorities “due to rugged terrain combined with thick vegetation and darkness,” deputies said.
Charges and Booking
Detectives later found additional evidence linking the suspects to the group assault. A parole hold was placed on Alonzo and he was booked at the Pre-Trial Detention Facility.
One juvenile was arrested for brandishing a firearm, brandishing a deadly weapon, street terrorism, and obstructing, resisting or delaying a peace officer.
The other juvenile was arrested for battery, street terrorism, and obstructing, resisting or delaying a peace officer. Both were cited and later released to their parents/guardians.
Ongoing Investigation
No further details were released as the case remains under investigation. Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call Detective Axel Morales at 805-477-7011 or Detective Dustin Heersche at 805-477-7012.
Anonymous tips can be provided to L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at lacrimestoppers.org.
“The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank members of the public for their ongoing support and due diligence in providing information to assist our agency in solving crimes,” the department said. “We are better at what we do because of our community partnerships.”
Conclusion
The arrest of the suspects in the gang-related group assault marks a significant step towards maintaining law and order in Ventura County. The cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the public has been instrumental in solving crimes and preventing future incidents.
FAQs
What was the nature of the incident?
The incident was a gang-related group assault involving 15-20 people.
How many suspects were arrested?
Four suspects were involved, but only three were arrested. The fourth suspect evaded authorities.
What were the charges against the suspects?
The charges included brandishing a firearm, brandishing a deadly weapon, street terrorism, battery, and obstructing, resisting or delaying a peace officer.
How can one provide information about the incident?
Information can be provided by calling Detective Axel Morales at 805-477-7011 or Detective Dustin Heersche at 805-477-7012, or through L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at lacrimestoppers.org.
