In the early hours of September 6, 2024, 43-year-old Jose Valdez was shot and killed in the parking lot of Citi Auto Sales on McHenry Avenue in Modesto, California. Police arrived shortly after midnight, found Valdez with at least one gunshot wound, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. The Modesto Police Department opened an active homicide investigation and collected evidence and witness statements that night.

Investigators identified 43-year-old Modesto resident Edward McCullen as the primary suspect and the department’s SWAT team arrested him later the same day in central Modesto without incident. McCullen was booked on multiple charges, including homicide and weapons violations. Authorities have not released a motive or described any relationship between Valdez and McCullen.

Valdez’s death has deeply affected family and friends, and funeral arrangements are expected to be announced. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Bolinger at 209-342-9162. Did anyone in Modesto see or hear anything in that area the night of September 6 that could help investigators?