Brawley PD arrest 3rd suspect believed to be involved in murder investigation

Another man is behind bars Tuesday who police believe is linked with the ongoing murder investigation in Brawley that left one person dead and another in the hospital.

On March 29, Brawley police arrested 22-year-old Robert Sanchez who authorities said was driving the getaway vehicle tied to the murder of 49-year-old Brawley Resident Arturo Rios.

Commander Brett Houser of the Brawley Police Department (BPD) said, “From the shooting on the 24th, we believe we had a specific type of vehicle that we were looking for. On the 29th during the arrest of Robert Sanchez, the suspect, [and] the alleged vehicle was located.”

Sanchez is the latest of three suspects arrested following two shootings that happened within 24 hours.

“During the first incident on the 24th, two individuals were shot and one was deceased on scene. The second individual received medical attention and is expected to survive. The victim from the second shooting was shot multiple times and is expected to survive,” said Commander Houser.

Police said the murder is considered to be gang-related.

Commander Houser said, “This looks like an isolated…isolated incident involved gang-related activity. But I wouldn’t consider it a gang problem.”

Sanchez is now facing one murder charge and another charge for attempted murder.

Police also arrested 20-year-old Christian Rodriguez who BPD said was involved in both shootings and is facing a murder charge as well as attempted murder charges. 24-year-old Sean Miller is facing attempted murder charges for the second shooting.

Jose Mireles, a Brawley resident, applauded law enforcement for catching those responsible. He added that it won’t stop others from following in their footsteps.

“No matter what, there’s always going to be somebody stupid out there again. To do the same thing that they did,” Mireles said.

Law enforcement said it’s due to the non-stop investigative work by authorities that led to the arrest of three suspects connected to the homicide investigation.

“We’re dealing with some dangerous individuals. So immediately starting from Sunday night investigators have been working tirelessly to locate these individuals. To take them into custody as soon as possible for the threat and safety to the public. Thankfully through their hard work and the help many partners within the law enforcement community we were able to do that,” Houser said.

The investigation for more possible suspects involved in the murder is still ongoing.

Anyone with any information concerning the shootings can contact the Brawley Police Department.