San Diego County Crime Stoppers and the San Diego Police Department are seeking the community's assistance to bring closure to a cold case. The murder of United States Sailor Lemontee Stevenson, which occurred back in 2019, remains unsolved even as authorities continue to piece together the events of that fateful night. As the case lingers, a combined reward of $51,000 is now available for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person responsible.
On the night of August 17, 2019, the sound of gunfire echoed in the 2700 block of Marcy Avenue, where Stevenson was found with multiple gunshot wounds. Despite efforts to save his life, the 19-year-old sailor passed away after being transported to a local hospital. Homicide detectives learned he was trying to peacefully resolve a dispute at a party when the situation tragically escalated. As Stevenson attempted to break up a fight between his friend and an unidentified man, the latter drew a handgun and shot him multiple times before fleeing the scene. The suspect has been described as a Black male with medium-length hair.
Authorities have steadily continued to investigate the circumstances surrounding Stevenson's death. The incident, which converted a celebration into a scene of devastation, remains a reminder of the fragility of peace and the impact of violence on communities. A photo of Lemontee Stevenson and further information can be found on the Crime Stoppers website.
The California Governor’s Office has contributed a substantial sum of $50,000 to the standing reward, with an additional $1,000 offered by San Diego County Crime Stoppers. This financial incentive will encourage witnesses or anyone with pertinent information to proceed. A call to action has been issued: anyone with knowledge of the murder is urged to contact the San Diego Police Department’s Homicide Unit at (619) 531-2293 or the Crime Stoppers anonymous tip line at (888) 580-8477. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the Crime Stoppers web and mobile app portals.
Reflecting on the indelible loss of Stevenson, the community and his loved ones await justice. The San Diego Police and Crime Stoppers remain committed to solving this case and are turning to the public to help ensure the person responsible is brought to account. As media inquiries about the case or Crime Stoppers continue, pertinent contacts include A/Lt. Geoff DeCesari, reachable at (619) 744-9501 or [email protected], Officer Mark Herring at (619) 531-1500 or [email protected], and Deputy Emilio Castillero at (619) 531-1547 or [email protected].
