Thermal was the scene of a dangerous confrontation last week when deputies from the area's sheriff's station responded to a shooting report. According to the Riverside Sheriff's Office, the incident occurred on December 5, 2025, at an inhabited dwelling on Avenue 70. While officers were investigating, a suspect opened fire in their direction, thankfully missing the deputies but striking a patrol vehicle.
The authorities acted quickly to pursue the suspect's vehicle but ultimately lost track of it. It wasn't long before an abandoned vehicle, believed to be connected to the suspect, was discovered on Landon Lane. Eighteen-year-old Gustavo Barrera Pena was identified as the alleged perpetrator after deputies found him in the vicinity and detained him after he initially attempted to flee on foot. "Barrera Pena was arrested for two counts of attempted murder of a peace officer and for discharging of a firearm into an inhabited dwelling," indicated the press release from the sheriff's office.
The Riverside Sheriff’s Force Investigations Detail, alongside the Riverside Sheriff’s Central Homicide Unit, took over the case due to its gravity. Barrera Pena now faces serious charges and is being held at the John J. Benoit Detention Center. The investigation continues, with the acknowledgment of at least one more suspect at large who is yet to be identified. The authorities have made clear this is an active and ongoing inquiry, withholding further details at this juncture.
Public help could prove crucial in this case. Individuals with any relevant information are strongly encouraged to step forward and assist law enforcement. They can do so by reaching out to Master Investigator R. Ramirez or Sr. District Attorney Investigator E. Crosson at the provided contact number (951) 955–2777. Media-related queries are to be directed to the Media Information Bureau, ensuring a single point of contact for news updates on the case.
