“Joshua Anthony Maldonado Identified as Victim in Santa Maria Shooting Death – Santa Maria Police Department Investigation”

Update by the Santa Maria Police Department

December 21, 2023

The victim in the fatal shooting that took place in Santa Maria on December 17, 2023 has been identified as Joshua Anthony Maldonado, a 33-year-old resident of Santa Maria.

The investigation into this tragic incident is still ongoing, and the Santa Maria Police Department is urging anyone who may have been in the area or has any information related to the case to contact them immediately.

If you have any information, please reach out to Detective Whitney at (805) 928-3781 ext. 1329 or the Communications Center at (805) 928-3781 ext. 2277.

You can also contact the SMPD Tip Line at (805) 928-3781 ext. 2677 (COPS).

By the Santa Maria Police Department

December 17, 2023

On Sunday, December 17, 2023, around 4:30 PM, officers responded to a reported shooting in the 500 block of W. Cook Street in Santa Maria. The incident occurred during a large residential gathering.

Two adult males at the scene were found to have suffered gunshot wounds. Despite lifesaving efforts, one of the victims, Joshua Anthony Maldonado, tragically lost his life. The second injured individual was immediately transported to the hospital and is currently in critical condition but is expected to survive.

The Detective Bureau and Crime Lab swiftly arrived at the scene to conduct a thorough investigation. The Detective Bureau has taken over the case, and it remains active and ongoing. As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with this incident.

If you have any information about this case, please contact Detective Whitney at (805) 928-3781 ext. 1329 or the Communications Center at (805) 928-3781 ext. 2277.

You can also reach the SMPD Tip Line at (805) 928-3781 ext. 2677 (COPS).