UPLAND, CA – A man suspected of a triple homicide in California, who had been on the run since January, was apprehended over the weekend. Pete Anthony Renteria, 29, was arrested in Upland, approximately 37 miles east of Los Angeles, following a fatal shooting at a public park, authorities reported.
The arrest occurred after law enforcement responded to a call about gunfire at Memorial Park’s southeast parking lot just before midday on Saturday. Upon arrival, they discovered a 34-year-old male victim with multiple gunshot injuries. Despite immediate medical assistance from officers and San Bernardino Fire personnel, the man was declared dead at the scene.
Renteria is the primary suspect in the January 30 murders of his grandparents, Sonia Ramirez, 68, and George Ramirez, 66, as well as his uncle, David Ramirez, 43. The three were found shot to death in a residence on Ramona Place in Ontario, another California city not far from Upland.
A GoFundMe page set up by a family member months ago expressed their devastation. Michele Akbari, who identified herself as the daughter of George and Sonia and the older sister of David, described her parents as devoted, compassionate, selfless, and kind. She also praised her brother as a family protector, a loving father, and an incredibly supportive son.
Following Saturday’s shooting, Upland officers swiftly located and arrested Renteria near the scene. They also recovered what they believe to be the firearm used in the shooting. Preliminary investigations suggest that Renteria had a previous altercation with the victim at the same location and returned to specifically target him. Authorities emphasized that the incident was targeted and not a random act of violence against the public.
After evading capture for nine months, Renteria was taken into Upland police custody before being transferred to San Bernardino County Jail. Online jail records indicate that he is currently being held on a $3 million bond. The identity of Saturday’s shooting victim has not yet been released, and no suspected motive has been disclosed for either shooting.