In the early morning hours of Sunday, April 5, 2026, the body of 37-year-old Anthony Lee Carlos of Fullerton was found in an alley near Main Street and Pacific Street in Stanton. First responders determined he died from a gunshot wound. The discovery sparked a homicide probe by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.

Investigators followed leads to a residence near Cerritos Avenue and Flower Avenue that was operating as an illegal gambling house. Multiple illegal gambling machines were seized and about 50 people were detained; most were later released but six were arrested on outstanding warrants unrelated to the homicide. Detectives said the gambling den’s presence raises questions about a possible connection to Carlos’s death.

On the evening of Tuesday, April 7, investigators arrested 43-year-old Jeffrey Lynn Clayton of Fullerton on suspicion of homicide and booked him into the Orange County Jail. Authorities reported Carlos and Clayton were known to each other and noted Clayton has a lengthy criminal history, including prior arrests for weapons offenses, vehicle theft, identity theft, and controlled substance possession. The motive and any direct link between the gambling operation and the shooting remain under investigation.

If anyone knew Anthony Carlos, his movements that weekend, or saw activity near Main and Pacific on April 5, please come forward with information.