Name: Joel Espinoza
Place:Oceanside, California
Born: December 11, 1981 22 years old at time of death
Description: Hispanic Male
5' 6" Tall
Brown eyes
Hair: Black/Bald
On the left arm is the name "Jenise" and on the right chest the name "Ashley
Last seen wearing: black jeans, white "Nike" tennis shoes, white ribbed tank top and a gray "Nike" short sleeve shirt.

Case Details:

On September 19, 2004 at approximately 11:30 pm, Joel Espinoza Jr. was walking in the alley north of the 1300 block of Buena Street with some friends when shots were fired from a car. Joel was shot in the chest and killed.

Police believe that this was a gang killing; that a rival gang was in the area and that Joel’s killing was not planned. Law enforcement needs witnesses to come forth and identify Joel's killer(s).

The vehicle driven by the killer(s) is described as a light colored sedan and is in the custody of law enforcement.

Joel Espinoza worked in construction and lived in Oceanside, California with his wife and daughter. At the time of his death, his wife was pregnant with their son.

If you have any information about this case please contact::

Oceanside California Police at (760) 435-4640.