Mario Puga was 21 and living in Salinas when he was shot and killed on May 8, 2016. He was working on a vehicle in the 300 block of Block Avenue that evening when an unknown assailant, described as a Hispanic male in a light-colored sweatshirt with the hood up, fired multiple shots, striking Puga several times in the torso. Medical personnel responded but Mario died shortly after the shooting.

Investigators said the incident appeared to be gang-related. The suspect was seen fleeing west on Block Avenue in a dark-colored mid-sized SUV. After a three-month investigation, authorities arrested 18-year-old Fabian Alvarado, who was already in custody on a probation violation, and charged him in connection with Puga’s death. The investigation remained active as police and the Monterey County District Attorney’s Office continued seeking information and witnesses.

If anyone saw activity in the 300 block of Block Avenue on May 8, 2016, or has information about the shooting or the vehicle seen leaving the scene, please come forward.