Refugio Lobato Tapia, 42, was killed in Modesto, California, on December 9, 2020. Law enforcement described his death as the result of a violent altercation that escalated into fatal violence and was ultimately ruled a homicide.

Modesto Police identified multiple people connected to the incident. Two suspects were arrested in Watsonville, about 100 miles southwest of Modesto, and were charged with murder and conspiracy to commit murder. Investigators also identified a third suspect who reportedly fled to Mexico.

The department continued gathering evidence and witness statements as the case moved into the court process. If anyone knew Refugio, saw activity around Modesto on or just before December 9, 2020, or has information about the identified suspects, please come forward to assist the investigation.