A homicide investigation is underway in Chula Vista after a body was discovered on Sunday in the Otay Valley Regional Park, authorities announced.
The San Diego Police Communications Center received a call at about 10:48 a.m. about a body that had been discovered in the western portion of the Otay Regional Valley Park, south of 200 Rancho Drive. The victim has been identified by police and is described as a 49-year-old Hispanic male, but his name will be withheld pending notification to his family members.
According to San Diego Police, responding officers found an “obviously deceased male” who suffered trauma to his upper body. Police say his injuries are indicative of a violent crime.
“It is very early in the investigation and detectives are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the death of the male,” the San Diego Police said in a news release.
San Diego Police Homicide Detectives are currently investigating the evidence. According to authorities, the investigation includes processing the scene for physical evidence, checking the area for surveillance video, and making attempts to interview any witnesses or persons with information that may provide information about the victim and the circumstances surrounding his death.
According to investigators, the victim resided with family members in Chula Vista and often frequented the area of the park where his body was ultimately found.
The exact cause of death will be determined by the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office. Authorities have not named a suspect.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to call the Homicide Unit at (619) 531-2293 or Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477.
