Suspect arrested for ‘senseless' murder of beloved Riverside father
According to the Riverside Police Department, it was around 10:10 p.m. on Saturday, March 22, when officers responded to reports of a shooting near Hole and Mitchell Avenues in the La Sierra neighborhood.
Officers arrived to find an unresponsive victim suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Paramedics attempted to treat the victim at the scene before taking him to a local hospital where, despite life-saving efforts, officials said he died a short time later.
The victim has been identified as 41-year-old David Abarca, according to RPD.
'Abarca leaves behind a 10-year-old son and had been a dedicated employee at Rodrigo's Mexican Grill in Riverside for nearly 25 years,' the department said in a statement.
According to the preliminary investigation, Abarca had stayed late at work that night and missed his usual ride – so he began walking home.
Detectives said that as Abarca neared Hole and Mitchell Avenues, the suspect approached him and suddenly shot him without provocation. Officials have found no indication that the two knew each other.
After the shooting, a neighbor told detectives they saw the suspect run through a yard and discard the handgun.
Officers then quickly found and detained the suspect, identified as Andre Devin Thomas, 23, of Riverside. Police also recovered the discarded gun nearby.
Thomas was booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center for murder, and he is being held on a $1 million bail.
'This was a senseless act of violence that took the life of a hardworking father, and our hearts go out to Mr. Abarca's family and loved ones,' said Riverside Police Chief Larry Gonzalez. 'I commend our officers for their swift response in capturing the suspect, and our detectives and forensic specialists for their diligent work. We remain committed to seeking justice for Mr. Abarca.'
The department said no further details are available, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with additional information is asked to contact Detective Anthony Watkins at 951-353-7105 or AWatkins@RiversideCA.gov, or Detective Richard Glover at 951-353-7134 or RGlover@RiversideCA.gov.
Police added that the Abarca family launched a GoFundMe to help with funeral expenses.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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