Victims identified in possible murder-suicide in Winterhaven

WINTERHAVEN, Calif. (KYMA) - The Imperial County Sheriff's Office (ICSO) has identified the victims of a possible murder-suicide in Winterhaven.

According to a press release, the victims were identified as 19-year-old Matthew Vargas and 23-year-old Jonathan Vargas.

ICSO says it happened Friday, October 10 in a home located in the area of Railroad Avenue and E Street, near Winterhaven Drive, at around 6:30 p.m.

Upon arrival, ICSO says deputies found a distraught man who had found the bodies of his two sons, Matthew and Jonathan Vargas, who both died from apparent gunshot wounds.

In addition, ICSO says they recovered a firearm and spent shell casing at the scene.

This prompted ICSO's Investigations Unit to initiate an investigation, with assistance from the Scientific Investigations Unit and Coroner's Office.

During the investigation, it was determined that the shooting may have been a murder-suicide between the two brothers, and ICSO says, "There are no indications of any outstanding suspects," and there is no threat to the community.

ICSO also says, "Autopsy and forensic testing are pending to determine the official cause and manner of death," and says their investigators have been in contact with the Vargas family to provide them updates on the case.

The investigation remains ongoing. If anyone has information regarding the case, call (442) 265-2052.