Bulldog Gang Rivalries Motive for Death of Fresno Man
FRESNO – Police arrested a suspect they believe is responsible for the fatal shooting of another man in southeast Fresno on Wednesday afternoon.
Thomas Hernandez
The Fresno Police Department arrested 28-year-old Thomas Hernandez of Fresno. The victim has been identified by the Fresno County Coroner’s office as 29-year-old Bernardo Valdez of Fresno.
Authorities say Hernandez and Valdez were members of opposite Bulldog gangs, which likely lead to a confrontation between the two and ultimately to Valdez’ death.
The incident happened near Nevada and Barton avenues around 3 p.m. on Wednesday. Police say Hernandez was walking in the neighborhood, saw Valdez and shot him with a sawed-off shotgun.
Hernandez then forced his way into a nearby home occupied by an elderly woman. She was able to get out of the house safely before Hernandez broke in. Hernandez then made his way into a neighboring house and threatened the four people and baby inside with his gun. He told them not to call the police, authorities said.
When officers arrived at the scene, they found Valdez’ body lying near the street. They then set up a wide perimeter around the area and were able to take Hernandez into custody. They also recovered the shotgun, which Hernandez had tried to hide inside the last home he was in.
Police believe Hernandez may have been under the influence of drugs at the time of the shooting. He also has an extensive criminal history, including attempted murder.
Hernandez was booked into the Fresno County Jail on suspicion of murder and weapons charges. This is Fresno’s 12th homicide of the year.
Read More:
Fresno Bee: Fresno Police Blame Fatal Shooting on Gang Rivalry
KSEE24 Fresno: Bulldog Gang Member Identified, Arrested as Suspected Shooter of Fresno Man
