Armando Meza Jr., 34, was shot and killed in Bakersfield on October 18, 2024. Deputies responded about 1:30 a.m. to the 1300 block of Ogden Street near Mercado Latino and found Meza suffering from a gunshot wound; he was taken to Kern Medical and pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Witnesses reported hearing an argument between Meza and a woman, then a gunshot. Investigators identified 34-year-old Dolores Alatorre as the suspect. Court documents say the dispute began over a bicycle Alatorre alleged Meza had stolen from her son; Alatorre confronted Meza from her vehicle while holding a chrome pistol. Witnesses quoted Meza’s last words as If you’re going to use it, then use it. Alatorre claims Meza reached into her car and she fired in self-defense. She fled the scene and was arrested October 20, 2024, and booked on first-degree murder charges; she has pleaded not guilty and a preliminary hearing is scheduled for November. The investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information is asked to contact the Kern County Sheriff’s Office?