Lester Dean Cruz Jr., born November 13, 1985, was a lifelong resident of Colton and Loma Linda. He died at age 38 after being fatally shot on December 8, 2023, in Colton, California. Lester is survived by his mother Debbie Gomez; siblings John, Leslie, Aaron Cruz, and Jonathan Rodriguez; his daughter Lynn Cruz; and his grandfather Ray. He was predeceased by his father, Lester Dean Cruz Sr.

The community shared condolences and memories online, and a memorial service was held on January 3, 2024, at Preciado Funeral Home in San Bernardino with a reception at VFW Post 6476 in Colton.

If anyone has information about the shooting or knew Lester, please share what you remember or contact investigators.