RIVERSIDE – (INT) – A Perris man is facing murder charges for allegedly shooting dead a suspected car thief he caught in the act.

When Tony Ortiz, 41, was located several hours after the July 24th incident, several firearms including the murder weapon were found at his home.

Riverside police allege that Ortiz shot at the fleeing car thief causing the stolen vehicle to crash into several parked vehicles and a dumpster before stopping on Magnolia Avenue. First responders found Alex Arzate, 35, of Riverside suffering from a fatal gunshot wound to the head.

Police released details of the July 24th incident five days later.

Story Date: August 2, 2024