Authorities have arrested a suspect in connection with a homicide investigation following a tragic shooting incident in Gwinnett County. On Thursday, August 15, 2024, law enforcement officials detained 42-year-old Ruben Santos Auxume-Guerra at a residence in Dekalb County, according to a press release from the Gwinnett County Sheriff's Office. Auxume-Guerra, a Doraville resident, now faces charges which include malice murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of certain crimes.
The arrest follows an incident that occurred on the 6200 block of Josephine Road on Wednesday, August 14, 2024. Gwinnett County Police were called to the scene around 3:30 p.m. after reports of a shooting. Officers found the victim, later identified as 28-year-old Anthony Hernandez, also of Doraville, had sustained gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead. Interviews with witnesses were conducted as homicide investigators took the helm of the case, the initial phase revealing the possibility of the altercation stemming from a domestic dispute.
Officials have been meticulous in handling the crime scene, gathering evidence to piece together the events that led to this fatal altercation. The Gwinnett County Crime Scene Unit processed the area where the shooting took place as part of their thorough investigation. While the motive was not immediately clear, subsequent insights suggested a domestic issue may have been the catalyst, according to statements provided during police interviews.
The Police Department earlier urged anyone with information regarding the case to come forward, ensuring anonymity for those who wish to remain out of the purview. Tipsters were encouraged to contact GCPD detectives at 770.513.5300, or, to remain unidentifiable, reach out to Crime Stoppers at 404.577.TIPS (8477) or via their website. Crime Stoppers offers a cash reward for tips that lead to an arrest or indictment in cases such as this one.
As the community grapples with the loss of Anthony Hernandez, the legal process now faces the task of bringing clarity to the circumstances of his untimely demise while ensuring that justice is served in a court of law. Auxume-Guerra has been transported to the Gwinnett County Jail where he will await further legal proceedings pertaining to the charges against him.
