Uncle Arrested for Shooting, Killing Nephew in Parlier

PARLIER – Police arrested a man for shooting and killing his nephew Wednesday night in Parlier.

Robert Sampson Lopez

The Parlier Police Department arrested 69-year-old Robert Sampson Lopez for the murder of his nephew, 42-year-old Michael Lopez.

Officers responded to reports of the shooting at approximately 9:29 p.m. at the Salandini Villa Apartments at 13785 E. Manning Ave. in Parlier. When the officers arrived at the scene, they found Michael Lopez shot dead on the floor of his apartment.

“It was believed that the uncle and the nephew were engaged in this gun battle,” said Parlier Police Chief David Cerda.

Michael Lopez was taken to Adventist Medical Center in the city of Reedley where he was later pronounced dead.

Parlier police requested assistance from the Fresno County Sheriff’s Homicide Unit. Robert Lopez was arrested outside of the apartment and is now facing homicide charges. Police also took evidence from the scene, including a weapon found inside the residence. Authorities say the motive for the murder is still under investigation.

In a twist to the story, the victim’s son, Michael Lopez, Jr., was stabbed to death nearly a year ago in April 2011 just outside the same complex in what was believed to be a gang-related disturbance. No suspect was ever arrested for the murder.

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