Robert Owens was 20 when he was killed on January 4, 2009, in West Central Fresno. He was staying at a hotel near Ashlan Avenue and Highway 99 when late on a Saturday night rival groups exchanged gunfire and police say Owens was an innocent bystander caught in the crossfire. No immediate arrests were made and authorities offered a reward for information leading to an arrest.

The shooting was recorded as Fresno’s first homicide of 2009 and was described as highlighting ongoing gang-related violence in the area. Owens’ death left his family and community deeply affected by the sudden and senseless nature of the killing.

If anyone has information about that night or the people involved, please come forward to assist the investigation.