Investigation into Gas Station Shooting Leads to Narcotics Sales Arrest
Originally Published By: Turlock Police Department
“On August 11, 2022, at approximately 4:48 p.m., Turlock Police Dispatch received a call of a shooting outside a gas station at West Main Street and North Tully Road. Shortly after the incident, officers located and arrested Aaron Martinez, 39-years old, a Keyes resident, on attempt homicide charges.
An investigation stemming from this shooting led Investigators with the Special Investigations Unit (S.I.U.) to an associate of the shooter, Aaron Martinez. After conducting surveillance in Keyes and a residence in the 500 block of Vermont Avenue, S.I.U. Investigators were able to establish a nexus of involvement with Martinez’ associate, Elizabeth Ordonez, 40-years old.
Shortly after the apprehension of Martinez, Ordonez was seen carrying several bags from Martinez’ residence and placing them in the bed of her white Ford pickup.
S.I.U. Investigators followed the pickup away from Martinez’ residence and conducted an enforcement stop for an equipment violation. Investigators searched the vehicle and discovered fentanyl pills, a large amount of methamphetamine, and other evidence of narcotics sales.
Based on evidence located in the vehicle, S.I.U. Investigators obtained and served a search warrant for Ordonez’ Turlock residence, located in the 500 block of Vermont Avenue.
During the search, Investigators and Detectives located additional narcotics and paraphernalia associated with drug sales. Three replica firearms, a ballistic vest, and a jacket with law enforcement insignia were also seized.
Detective Brandon Bertram said, “Over thirty hours of continuous work between Patrol Officers, S.I.U., and Detectives resulted in the arrest of an attempted homicide suspect and the dismantling of a major narcotics sales operation Martinez and Ordonez were responsible for. This is yet another example of your police department’s relentless effort in keeping our neighborhoods safe.”
Ordonez was booked in the Stanislaus County Jail on Friday, August 12, 2022, for narcotics sales and transportation of narcotics charges.
Turlock Police Department staff ask that anyone with information regarding the shooting to call Detective Brandon Bertram at (209) 664-7323. You can also contact the Turlock Police Department’s Tip Line at (209) 668-5550 extension 6780 or email at tpdtipline@turlock.ca.us.
The Turlock Police Department is an active participant in the Crime Stoppers Program. Callers can leave an anonymous tip by calling Crime Stoppers at (209) 521-4636 and may be eligible for a cash reward.”
