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Javier Cazarez has been identified as the gunman who killed five people in Bakersfield, California on Wednesday night.
Six people, including the shooter, were killed. The victims have been identified as Cazarez’s estranged wife Petra Maribel Bolaños de Cazarez, Antonio Valdez, Manuel Contreras, Laura Garcia, and her dad Eliseo Garcia. Cazarez used a used .50-caliber handgun in the shooting.
Mark King, a Lieutenant for the Kern County Sheriff’s Office, says there is a “strong indication” that domestic violence could be the cause of the shooting. At this time, investigators are still looking into possible motives.
What Happened?
According to Kern County Sheriff Donny Youngblood, Cazarez went to a truck business located on Manwell Boulevard behind Bear Mountain Sports with his wife and confronted an unidentified person at the business around 5:30 p.m. local time. Cazarez shot the victim before shooting his wife.
A report from The Bakersfield Californian says a third unidentified male who arrived at the scene was shot and killed by Cazarez. Then, he went to a residence near Breckenridge Road and Mesquite Lane where he confronted a man and a woman before shooting and killing them. He then carjacked a vehicle with a woman and child inside, although they escape as he took the vehicle.
After the suspect was spotted by an officer, Cazarez pulled into a nearby parking lot and killed himself.
Authorities say that approximately 30 people witnessed the shootings and are being interviewed by police.
Who Is Javier Cazarez?
Cazarez, 54, is the person who is responsible for the mass shooting in Bakersfield, California, on September 12. Five people were killed before the gunman turned the weapon on himself.
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What Was The Motive?
While no official motive has been determined at the time of this writing, Lt. Mark King of the Kern County Sheriff’s Office said there is a “strong indication” that domestic violence could be the motive.
Police said in a press conference that they believe the murders were sparked by a domestic dispute, between the shooter and his ex-wife, Petra.
Who Died?
Petra Maribel Bolaños de Cazarez, Antonio Valdez, Manuel Contreras, Laura Garcia her dad Eliseo have been named as the victims.
This story is developing. Please refresh for the latest updates and information.
