The Santa Rosa Police Department (SRPD) identified 24-year-old Luis Gustavo Aroyo-Lopez as the primary suspect in a grisly homicide that occurred yesterday, on the 2500-block of Pomo Trail. Found at the scene was the decapitated body of a woman, a relative of Aroyo-Lopez's. It's suspected that he may have the victim's head with him. In their ongoing investigation, the SRPD's Violent Crimes Investigations team is seeking public assistance to locate Aroyo-Lopez, who is considered armed and dangerous, per the SRPD news release.
Aroyo-Lopez, detailed as a Hispanic adult male about 5-foot 6-inches tall and weighing 150 pounds, has black hair, brown eyes, and a "420" and marijuana leaf tattoo who's placed on the left side of his head. Last seen wearing a long-sleeve black hooded sweatshirt or jacket, black pants, and white shoes, his destination is as yet unknown, though it should be noted that he has relatives in the San Joaquin Valley area.
The suspect has a criminal background. Before this crime, Aroyo-Lopez was incarcerated for assault with a deadly weapon and weapons possession charges that were unrelated to the victim. Recently released from prison, he was placed on Postrelease Community Supervision (PRCS). This situation brings to the forefront the urgency of apprehending Aroyo-Lopez and necessitates questions related to prison release processes and released individuals' potential threat to society.
The SRPD, through the Sonoma County Alliance Community Engagement and Safety Rewards Fund, offers a reward of up to $2,500 for any information leading to Aroyo-Lopez's arrest. They encourage anyone with relevant information to get in touch with the SRPD VCI team at 707-543-3590.
