Salinas Police Arrest Suspect in 2008 Homicide Following Renewed Investigation
SALINAS, CA — Officers with the Salinas Police Department have made an arrest in connection with a 2008 homicide following a renewed investigation into the case. On November 11, 2008, officers responded to reports of a shooting victim in the 1100 block of East Laurel Drive. Upon arrival, they located 21-year-old Fernando Busio Santos with multiple gunshot wounds. Despite efforts by medical personnel, Santos was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Salinas Police Detectives took over the investigation, but initial suspect information was limited. Over the years, detectives continued to follow leads, re-interview witnesses, and examine evidence, which ultimately resulted in identifying 32-year-old Eric Hurtado as a suspect. On March 6, 2025, Hurtado was taken into custody following a traffic stop and later booked into Monterey County Jail for the murder of Santos.
While detectives do not believe there are additional suspects, the investigation remains active. Authorities encourage anyone with information regarding the case to contact Detective Byron Gansen at 831-758-7277. Anonymous tips can be submitted through the Salinas Police Department’s anonymous tip line at 831-775-4222.
Image: Salinas Police Dept
