KING CITY — King City Police Department (KCPD) is continuing its investigation into a homicide that occurred on Dec. 1, 2024, in the 800 block of Willow Street, where a 31-year-old man was found shot inside a vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene.
According to KCPD, the investigation led detectives to identify two suspects: Silvano Valencia Jr., a 21-year-old former resident of King City, and Israel Martinez, a 20-year-old local resident.
An arrest warrant for Valencia was issued, and with the help of the U.S. Marshals Service, he was apprehended in Brawley, Calif., on Feb. 25. Valencia is currently detained at the Imperial County Jail, awaiting extradition to Monterey County, facing charges of homicide, along with gun and gang enhancements.
KCPD has issued an active arrest warrant for Martinez, whose whereabouts are currently unknown.
Martinez is described as a Hispanic male, approximately 5-foot-4-inches tall and weighing around 140 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. He is noted to have several tattoos, including three dots on his right cheek and the words “Blue Devil” on his left hand. He also has a crown tattooed on his left arm.
“Martinez is considered armed and dangerous,” warned KCPD. “Please do not try to contact or apprehend him yourself.”
KCPD is appealing to the public for any information regarding Martinez’s whereabouts. Citizens are encouraged to contact the police department at 831-385-4848, or reach out to Detective Sgt. Partida directly at 831-386-5988 or Detective Gurley at dg*****@ki******.com. Anonymous tips can be made through the WeTip line at 1-844-844-3382.
