As East Palo Alto officials and local advocacy groups continue to seek justice for a nearly six-year-old murder case, a notable collaboration underscores the lingering wound in the community. The East Palo Alto Police Department, teaming up with the organization Mothers Against Murder, is now offering a $10,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of suspect Juan Carlos Solis. The alliance between law enforcement and Mothers Against Murder typifies a collective yearning for resolution in the harrowing case of Victor Gomez-Rios, slain in his vehicle back in 2019.
According to a press release from the East Palo Alto Police, Victor Gomez-Rios was found dead from gunshot wounds on the 1800 block of East Bayshore Road. Since then, the pursuit of justice has been tedious and fraught with the elusive silence of a suspect at large. Despite the valiant efforts by law enforcement, Solis has managed to evade capture for years.
A renewed call to action accompanies the announcement of the reward, with authorities echoing the stakes. "Our community’s help is vital in bringing closure to this family and ensuring accountability for this violent crime," the East Palo Alto Police shared.
As the search intensifies, a 2019 photograph of Juan Carlos Solis has been disseminated in hopes of jogging public memory or spotting the suspect who has successfully dodged apprehension. Anyone with pertinent knowledge or tips can contact the East Palo Alto Police Department directly or opt for anonymity using the EPAPD anonymous tip line.
