Santa Ana, CA – A man and woman from Santa Ana have been arrested and charged in connection with a fatal gang-related shooting that occurred last August in Santa Ana. The victim, 32-year-old Erick Alegria, was killed on August 26, 2024, near the 800 block of South Townsend Street.
At approximately 3:30 p.m. on the day of the shooting, Santa Ana Police Department (SAPD) officers responded to reports of gunfire in the area. Upon arrival, they discovered Alegria suffering from a gunshot wound. Orange County Fire Authority paramedics were dispatched to the scene, but despite life-saving attempts, Alegria succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Initial investigations revealed that the suspects fled the scene in a silver 2013-2016 Honda Accord EX sedan with a sunroof, 10-spoke wheels, and temporary California license plates. This information was crucial in the subsequent investigation.
Detectives identified two individuals, 28-year-old Santino Javier Fausto and 26-year-old Stefany Vuelvas, both residents of Santa Ana, as prime suspects in Alegria's murder. The investigation revealed that Fausto and Vuelvas allegedly drove into territory claimed by a rival gang. Fausto then exited the vehicle and allegedly shot Alegria, who was believed to be a rival gang member, before fleeing the scene with Vuelvas.
On February 12, 2025, after a months-long investigation, SAPD investigators executed multiple search warrants at various locations in Santa Ana. This operation led to the arrest of both Fausto and Vuelvas.
The Orange County District Attorney's Office has formally charged Fausto and Vuelvas with murder, as well as charges related to firearm offenses and criminal street gang activity. The specific firearm charges have not yet been released, pending further investigation. The District Attorney's office is also investigating the extent of Vuelvas's alleged involvement in the crime, as well as the specific gang affiliation of both suspects and the victim.
The SAPD is continuing its investigation into this incident and urges anyone with information to come forward. Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact the SAPD Homicide Section Detectives at 714-245-8390. Tipsters wishing to remain anonymous can contact the Orange County Crime Stoppers hotline at 855-TIP-OCCS (855-847-6227). The investigation is ongoing, and further details may be released as they become available.
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