On December 31, 2023, at about 8:00 p.m., 35-year-old Carlos Octaviano Bazante was fatally shot while driving near East 14th and B Streets in Madera, California. Officers responding to reports of a crash and gunfire found Bazante’s vehicle had collided and that he had sustained multiple gunshot wounds; he was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators say Bazante was struck while driving, lost control, and crashed.

Scene evidence indicated at least 15 rounds were fired, six striking Bazante’s vehicle and one hitting a nearby house; no other injuries were reported. Witnesses described a single shooter standing on the sidewalk who fled immediately. The Madera Police Department has not announced any arrests and is seeking surveillance footage and witness statements to identify the shooter and establish a motive.

Bazante, born August 11, 1988, was a Madera resident and is remembered by family and friends as a beloved son, brother, and friend. If anyone saw the shooting, the shooter fleeing, or has relevant video, please contact investigators with information.