Andres Orellana Obituary, Death; Salinas police ID shooting victim, search for 3 suspects
Andres Orellana Obituary, Death – Salinas police are renewing their call for public assistance nearly two weeks after a deadly shooting left a man dead in the Cesar Chavez Park area. Authorities are working to gather more information that could lead to the suspects responsible.
The shooting occurred on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at around 7 p.m. According to the Salinas Police Department, officers were alerted to the incident through a ShotSpotter activation — a gunshot detection system that pinpoints the location of gunfire. Responding officers arrived in the vicinity of Cesar Chavez Park, where they discovered a man suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.
The victim was identified as 39-year-old Andres Orellana. Despite emergency efforts to save him, Orellana was pronounced dead shortly after the shooting. The loss has shaken the local community, as the incident took place during daylight hours in a public area known to draw families and residents for recreation.
Investigators reported that witnesses at the scene saw three individuals wearing dark clothing fleeing the area immediately after the gunfire. The suspects were seen running westbound along North Madeira Avenue. However, despite the shooting occurring in broad daylight and in front of numerous potential witnesses, police say they have received very little information to aid in their investigation.
Detectives believe there are people who may have seen critical details — such as the suspects’ faces, the direction they fled, or any vehicles involved — but who have not yet come forward. They are urging those individuals to share what they know, stressing that even seemingly minor observations could be vital to solving the case.
The Salinas Police Department released a public statement on social media appealing directly to the community for assistance. “We know people saw something. We need those people to do the right thing and help us get justice for the victim and his family,” the statement read.
The motive for the shooting has not yet been determined, and police have not confirmed whether it was gang-related, targeted, or random. Detectives continue to review surveillance footage from nearby businesses and residences in hopes of identifying the suspects or tracking their movements after the shooting.
This homicide has added to growing concerns about public safety in Salinas, where law enforcement officials have been working to curb violent crime. Community leaders have echoed the police department’s call for cooperation, emphasizing that solving violent crimes often depends on the willingness of witnesses to speak up.
Authorities have provided contact information for those with any knowledge about the incident. Detective Pete Gomez can be reached directly at 831-901-4735 or through the Salinas Police Department’s main line at 831-758-7162. Callers can also choose to remain anonymous when sharing tips.
As the investigation continues, Orellana’s death serves as a grim reminder of the impact of gun violence and the critical role the community plays in helping law enforcement bring those responsible to justice. Police remain hopeful that renewed attention to the case will encourage more witnesses to come forward.
