On the evening of January 2, 2026, 22-year-old Joseph Macias of Bakersfield went to Foods Co. on White Lane and intervened when he saw two people trying to rob an older man by snatching his chain. Witnesses say one of the assailants produced a firearm and fired multiple shots in the store parking lot just before 9:30 p.m.; Macias was struck and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Family described Macias as a loving father of two young daughters, a cherished brother, and a son with a heart full of gold, saying his final act reflected his character. The Bakersfield Police Department identified two suspects quickly; the next day detectives arrested two 17-year-old boys at a residence near H and Fifth Streets and booked them into Kern County Juvenile Hall.

The juveniles face charges that include homicide, assault with a deadly weapon, robbery, and gang participation. Does anyone who was at Foods Co. that night or who knew Joseph have information that could help clarify what happened?