Second Suspect Arrested for Homicide in the Murder of Dante Lopez
Photo: scene of the shooting
SPRING VALLEY – The tragedy began on July 11th. A report of a shooting at approximately 11:15 PM immediately sent San Diego Sheriff’s Deputies to the 1000 block of Elkelton Boulevard. Upon arrival, responding Deputies encountered an adult male, shot down near the intersection at Crestmore.
Lifesaving efforts were provided until Fire Department personnel arrived on scene. The injured man was was transported to a nearby hospital – but sadly, succumbed to his injuries shortly after arriving there.
Sheriff’s Homicide Unit arrived to assume responsibility of the investigation and determined the victim’s ID. After he was pronounced deceased, the victim remained anonymous until family was notified.
Two days later, the Medical Examiner’s autopsy released the ID: Dante Anthony Lopez (42) of San Diego. The preliminary cause of death was listed as “gunshot wound.” The manner of death was listed as “Homicide.”
The ongoing investigation revealed one suspect on July 14th. Sheriff’s Homicide Detectives identified George Gomez III (20), of San Diego, arrested him as a suspect in Dante Lopez’s murder, and booked him into San Diego Central Jail on one count of 187(a) PC – Murder.
The ongoing investigation released an update on July 28th. Detectives announced that a second suspect had been identified as Isak Espino (25), of San Diego, in Dante Lopez’s murder.
Espino had been arrested the day before, and booked into San Diego Central Jail on one count of 187(a) PC – Murder. The investigation continues.
Anyone with information about this tragic incident is urged to call the Homicide Unit at (858) 285- 6330/after hours at (858) 565-5200. To remain anonymous, please call Crime Stoppers at (888) 580- 8477.
