The Chula Vista community is mourning the tragic death of an 18-year-old following a shooting at a Walmart parking lot in the 1300 block of Eastlake Parkway late Tuesday night. According to the Chula Vista Police Department (CVPD), officers were dispatched at approximately 10:30 p.m. after reports of gunfire in the area.
When officers arrived, they located the teenager suffering from a gunshot wound. Emergency personnel provided immediate medical assistance before transporting the victim to a local hospital, where the individual was later pronounced deceased.
Investigators say 32-year-old Thomas Perez was involved in an altercation with the teen prior to the shooting. During the confrontation, Perez allegedly reached for a firearm and shot the 18-year-old. Perez then called 911 and later turned himself in to authorities. He has since been booked into county jail on a murder charge.
As the investigation continues, officials have expressed condolences to the victim’s family during this devastating time. The loss of a young life has deeply affected the community, with many describing the incident as heartbreaking. Authorities are urging privacy for the family as they grieve this unimaginable loss.
CVPD continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact San Diego Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477. Officials say community cooperation remains vital as they work to establish a full account of the events that led to the fatal shooting.
Family members are currently being notified, and the identity of the victim has not yet been publicly released. Community members have begun sharing condolences and messages of sympathy, reflecting the shock and sadness surrounding the incident. Many have expressed grief over the loss of a young life in what authorities describe as a tragic and violent encounter.
