On September 30, 2023, 44-year-old Morse Holly West was fatally shot near Martin and Clayton Avenues in northwest Modesto, California, shortly before midnight in a residential area. West was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Modesto Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit conducted an extensive investigation and identified 55-year-old Michael Gunn as the suspect. Detectives arrested Gunn at his Modesto residence on December 20, 2023. Authorities have not disclosed a potential motive, and it is unclear whether the suspect and victim were known to each other. The investigation remains ongoing as detectives continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses.

Anyone with information about the homicide is asked to contact the Modesto Police Department to assist the investigation.