A fatal altercation in Lodi has left one man dead and led to the arrest of two others, according to police statements. The Lodi Police Department responded to a call involving multiple individuals fighting on the 300 block of West Century Boulevard shortly before 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, as reported by ABC10.
During their response, officers learned that the victim, 29-year-old Albert Bustamante of Lodi, had been stabbed once. Bustamante had been quickly transported to a hospital by a family member but was later pronounced dead from his injuries. Detectives subsequently arrested Lodi residents Juan Orduna Suarez, 30, and David James Flores, 35, on suspicion of homicide. Flores also faces an additional charge of being an accessory, as stated by KCRA.
The Lodi Police Department has said that the motive behind the stabbing is currently under investigation, and there appears to be no indication of any more suspects being involved in the incident at this time. Law enforcement officials are asking anyone with information related to the case to come forward and provide assistance.
Members of the community with knowledge pertinent to the investigation are encouraged to directly contact the Lodi Police Department or Detective Elias at the numbers provided or via email at [email protected]. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Lodi Area Crime Stoppers at their website or phone number. Those providing tips might be eligible to receive up to a $1,000 reward. The Lodi Police Department Case No. 24-7694 should be referenced in all tips regarding this incident. Suarez and Flores are both expected to soon appear in San Joaquin County Superior Court tomorrow afternoon.
