Police investigating after man found fatally shot on east side

OAKVIEW – Homicide detectives are investigating the city’s latest killing after a man was found shot to death in the early hours of Tuesday morning on the city’s east side, authorities said.

Police were dispatched to the 1400 block of Sterling Avenue around 2:15 a.m. after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting the sound of gunfire in the area. Upon arrival, officers discovered a man lying unresponsive on the sidewalk with at least one gunshot wound.

Paramedics were called to the scene but pronounced the man dead shortly after their arrival.

“Our patrol units responded quickly and secured the area,” said Oakview Police Captain Maria Flores in a morning briefing. “Homicide detectives have taken over the investigation and are currently canvassing the neighborhood for any potential witnesses and searching for surveillance video that may have captured the incident.”

The victim, who police believe to be in his late 20s or early 30s, has not yet been publicly identified pending notification of his next of kin.

On Tuesday morning, police tape still cordoned off a half-block section of Sterling Avenue between North 14th and 15th streets as forensic investigators collected evidence. At least half a dozen yellow evidence markers could be seen on the pavement near a parked sedan.

Residents of the normally quiet residential street expressed shock and concern.

“You hear sirens now and then, but to have something like this happen right on your doorstep is terrifying,” said one resident, who asked not to be named out of fear for her safety. “I heard the pops, but you always hope it’s just fireworks.”

A motive for the shooting remains unclear, and police have not released any information regarding a potential suspect or suspects. No arrests have been made.

This marks the 12th homicide in Oakview this year, a figure that is tracking slightly ahead of the same time last year, according to data maintained by the department.

Police are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. Tips can be directed to the Oakview Police Homicide Unit at (555) 902-4521 or submitted anonymously through the Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-222-TIPS.

“Even the smallest detail could be the piece of information our detectives need to move forward,” Captain Flores said. “We are relying on the community’s help to bring justice for the victim and his family.”

The investigation is active and ongoing.