Josue Cardenas, 18, was shot and killed after midnight on July 26, 2021, at a house party on E. Springfield Avenue near Justine Avenue in Reedley, California. About 20 people were at the party when officers from the Reedley Police Department found Cardenas in the backyard with multiple gunshot wounds to his chest; he was pronounced dead at the scene. A 21-year-old man was also shot in the leg and survived.

Investigators said the shooting was not believed to be gang-related and that witnesses gave differing accounts, leaving the motive unclear. On July 30, 2021, authorities arrested 18-year-old James Lopez; he was booked into the Fresno County Jail on murder charges. The investigation into the circumstances of the shooting continued.

If anyone at the party or nearby that night has information that could clarify what happened, contact Reedley Police.