On Wednesday, October 11th, 2023, the Chula Vista Police Department arrested a third suspect in the 2020 murder of 41-year-old Corey McCastle.
On Thursday, March 19th, 2020, at 10:08 P.M., officers responded to a report of gunshots in the area of 700 E Street in Chula Vista. When officers arrived on scene, they located a man — later identified as McCastle — on the ground with gunshot wounds. McCastle was transported by paramedics to a local hospital, but despite lifesaving measures, he was pronounced deceased.
At the time of the initial investigation, it was believed McCastle went to the location to speak with an unknown person regarding a dispute over a dog. Witnesses on scene said the suspect ran up to McCastle and started shooting at him. The suspect then fled on foot. He was described as an adult male wearing dark clothing and armed with a handgun.
Detectives immediately began collecting video evidence, speaking with witnesses, and working to identify suspects. Throughout the course of the investigation, with combined efforts of the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office, four suspects were identified as being involved in the murder.
Earlier this year, two of the four suspects were arrested on charges related to the case. On February 22nd, 2023, 29-year-old Victor Nunez of San Diego was arrested for murder. On September 14th, 2023, 28-year-old Aaron Gonzalez of Murrieta was arrested for murder and conspiracy to commit murder.
This past Wednesday, October 11th, 2023, a third suspect, 57-year-old Veotis Thomas of La Mesa was arrested for murder and conspiracy to commit murder. At the time of the arrest, Thomas was already in custody at the San Diego County Jail on unrelated charges.