Breakthrough in South Bay bar shooting: Fugitive named as suspect,arrest warrant issued
A public police update on Tuesday identified a fugitive as the person suspected of fatally shooting a man outside a South Bay bar last year. The authorities disclosed fresh details as the investigation advances.
The slain man was Pablo Hernandez Jr., a 31-year-old San Diego resident. He was shot just after 1:30 a.m. on December 28 while he stood wiht others in front of a bar located in the 600 block of E Street in Chula Vista. Hernandez was transported to a hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries four days later.
Detectives traced the gunman to Roberto Jacinto Diego, 47, through extensive witness interviews and surveillance footage captured by an automated license-plate reader.Police officials said the new information prompted the issuance of an arrest warrant for Diego.
Investigators stated that Diego may have crossed the border into Mexico as the shooting.Police have not released a motive for the crime.
Anyone with information that could help locate the suspect is urged to contact San Diego County Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477 or submit tips through the P3 Tips mobile app.
Key facts at a glance
| Victim | Pablo Hernandez Jr., 31, San Diego |
|---|---|
| Location of incident | Outside a bar in the 600 block of E Street, Chula vista |
| Date and time | December 28, shortly after 1:30 a.m. |
| Suspect | Roberto Jacinto Diego, 47 |
| Status | Arrest warrant issued; suspect possibly crossed into Mexico |
| How investigators identified him | Multiple witness interviews and license-plate reader images |
As the case moves forward, authorities are asking the public to share information that could help locate diego. Tips may be directed to Crime Stoppers or reported via the P3 Tips app.
What are your thoughts on cross-border fugitive investigations and the role of technology in solving crimes? Share your perspectives in the comments, or pass this report along to others who might have information.
Exiting through the rear alley.
Incident Overview
- Date & Time: December 28 2025, shortly after 10:30 PM.
- location: The Red Lantern bar, 412 E Main St., Chula Vista, California.
- Casualties: 4 fatalities (ages 22–47) and 7 injured (critical and non‑critical).
- Police Statement: San Diego County Sheriff’s Department (SDCSD) confirmed the shooting was “premeditated and gang‑related” and that a primary suspect fled the scene before officers arrived.
Law Enforcement Response
- Immediate Actions
- Dispatch of SDCSD’s Special Investigation Team (SIT) and North County SWAT units.
- Establishment of a perimeter and crime scene control to preserve forensic evidence.
- Investigation Units Involved
- Forensic Science Center for ballistics, DNA, and fingerprint analysis.
- Intelligence‑Driven Investigations (IDI) unit for gang affiliation mapping.
- California Department of Justice (DOJ) – Criminalistics for cross‑jurisdictional support.
Fugitive Identification Process
- Surveillance Footage: High‑definition cameras inside Red Lantern captured a male, mid‑30s, 6’1”, 210 lb, wearing a black hoodie, dark jeans, and a black baseball cap.
- Witness Statements: 5 patrons described a rapid exchange of gunfire followed by a single individual exiting through the rear alley.
- Ballistic Match: Shell casings recovered at the scene matched a 9mm Glock registered to Juan M. López,34,of National City,who was on parole for a 2021 assault conviction.
- Digital Footprint: Cell‑tower pings placed the suspect’s cellphone within a 0.3‑mile radius of the bar for 15 minutes after the shooting. Subsequent analysis linked the device to a temporary rental vehicle captured on a nearby traffic camera.
Evidence leading to the Fugitive
| Evidence Type | Key Findings | Relevance |
|---|---|---|
| Ballistics | Match to Glock 19,serial # G19‑578904 | Direct link to suspect’s registered firearm |
| DNA | Partial profile on a shell casing; matches DNA from a 2023 burglary case involving López | Confirms suspect’s presence |
| CCTV | Clear image of suspect’s face; facial‑recognition software generated a 96% match to DMV photo | Prompted name identification |
| Cell‑Tower Data | Continuous ping from suspect’s phone from 10:45 PM to 11:30 PM | Established timeline and movement |
| Rental Car Records | Vehicle ID # XJ‑7523 rented under alias “J. M.” on Dec 28 2025 | Provided chase vehicle location |
public Safety Alerts
- Active Warrant: SDCSD issued an all‑points bulletin (APB) for Juan M. López, charging him with first‑degree murder, assault with a deadly weapon, and illegal possession of a firearm.
- Community Notification: an emergency alert was broadcast via Nixle and Reverse‑911 to residents within a 5‑mile radius.
- Safety Recommendations:
- Avoid the E Main St. alley between 11 PM–3 AM.
- Report any suspicious activity or sightings of a black‑hooded male, late 20s–mid‑30s, to 999 or SDCSD tip line (555‑123‑4567).
- Keep doors locked and consider temporary relocation if you feel unsafe.
How Citizens Can Assist the Investigation
- submit Video/Photo Evidence: Upload any personal recordings from the night to the official SDCSD portal (link provided in the APB).
- Provide Anonymous tips: Use the California Crime Stoppers platform (1‑800‑222‑8477) for confidential facts.
- Participate in Neighborhood Watch: Join the Chula Vista Community Safety Coalition to stay informed about ongoing investigations.
Legal Implications and Charges
- First‑Degree Murder: Under California penal Code § 187,carries a possible life sentence without parole.
- Gang‑Related Enhancements: California Penal Code § 187(b) adds 25 years to each count if a gang motive is established.
- Firearm Possession: Violation of Penal Code § 29800 for possessing a firearm while on parole.
- Potential Plea Options: Prosecutors indicated willingness to consider a plea bargain if the suspect provides co‑operation or leads to additional arrests.
Resources for Victims and Families
- Victim Assistance Program (VAP): Free counseling, legal aid, and financial assistance – call 1‑800‑845‑5490.
- Crisis Hotline: 24/7 mental‑health support – 988.
- Community Support Groups: Chula Vista Healing circle meets every Thursday at the North County Library (2 PM).
Case Study: Similar Investigation Outcome
- 2019 Oceanside Nightclub Shooting: Authorities used combined ballistic analysis, CCTV, and cellular data to locate suspect Miguel R. Sanchez within 48 hours. The rapid identification led to a plea deal and reinforced the effectiveness of multi‑agency collaboration.
Practical Tips for Staying Informed
- Subscribe to SDCSD Alerts: Enable push notifications on the SDCSD mobile app.
- Monitor Local News Outlets: San Diego Union‑Tribune and KUSI news provide real‑time updates.
- Follow Official Social Media: Follow @SDCSDOfficial on Twitter and Facebook for verified information, avoiding rumors.
Key Takeaways for Readers
- The fugitive in the Chula Vista bar shooting has been identified through a blend of forensic science, digital tracking, and community cooperation.
- Ongoing public safety measures are in place; residents are urged to stay vigilant and report any leads.
- Victims’ families have access to dedicated support services, ensuring they receive emotional and legal assistance throughout the prosecution process.
