Jesus Cachu Melgoza, 28, of Lamont, California, was found dead along Weedpatch Highway in Bakersfield on June 28, 2021. Deputies from the Kern County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of a shooting about 4 a.m.; Melgoza was discovered with trauma to his body, including gunshot wounds, and was pronounced dead at the scene. His death was classified as a homicide.

Investigators described the case as active but released few details about suspects or motive in the immediate aftermath. No arrests had been announced and detectives continued to seek leads and evidence. Anyone who was in the area of Weedpatch Highway that morning or who has information related to Melgoza’s movements is asked to contact the Kern County Sheriff’s Office.