JOHNSON VALLEY – Officers gave quick response to the 5900 Block of Kickapoo Trail on 12/23/19 at 8:23 AM to a 9-1-1 call. Keith Putz, Sr. (72), reported he had just killed his son, Keith Putz, Jr. (43). Both men were residents of Johnson Valley.
Arriving Deputies and medical personnel located the victim in front of a trailer, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds, difficulty breathing, and chest pains. The victim was immediately transported to a local area hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
A shotgun was located inside the suspects’ home. Specialized Detectives from the Homicide Detail commenced a murder investigation.
It was learned that Putz. Jr burglarized Putz Sr.’s home on 12/22/19. On 12/23/2019 in the wee hours of Hannukah, the victim stole his father’s vehicle, was involved in a CHP pursuit, and managed to avoid arrest.
When Putz Sr. called law enforcement regarding the two prior incidents, a very upset Putz Jr. returned to his father’s house.
An altercation and argument began and the son threatened to kill Putz Sr, at which point Putz Sr. shot shot and killed his attacker.
No arrests have been made during this ongoing investigation. Investigators are preparing a full report for the District Attorney’s Office to review.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Bruce Southworth, Specialized Investigations Division – Homicide Detail at (909)387-3589. Callers can remain anonymous and contact WeTip at 800-78CRIME or www.wetip.com.
