On March 10, 2017, Javier Lizaola, 24, was found shot to death in Orange Cove near Railroad Avenue and 11th Street alongside 27-year-old Alex Esquivel. Two children walking home from a nearby store discovered the bodies and alerted family members, who contacted law enforcement. The Fresno County Sheriff’s Office determined both men died of gunshot wounds, with Lizaola suffering a fatal shot to the head.

Investigators executed search warrants at multiple Orange Cove locations and arrested 25-year-old Jairo Mancilla of Orange Cove. He was charged with two counts of murder and a probation violation and pleaded not guilty as the case moved through the courts. The killings prompted a community memorial at the scene and a reward was offered for information as the investigation continued.

If anyone knew Javier, Alex, where they spent time that night, or has information that could help, please share what is known with investigators.