Suspect in Menlo Park Crime Wanted in Death of Ex Merced DA's Son

SANTA CLARA COUNTY, CA -- A man wanted for a 2017 attempted homicide in Menlo Park is now suspected of murdering of the son of Merced's ex district attorney.

An arrest warrant has been issued for Dagoberto Penaloza, a 26-year-old Palo Alto man who's accused of killing the son of former longtime Merced district attorney Larry Morse.

Investigators say Penaloza is also wanted for a 2017 Thanksgiving attempted homicide in Menlo Park. There's an $11 million warrant out for his arrest in connection to that crime.

Penaloza was identified as the main suspect in the Atwater case following multiple tips from the public, according to the Atwater Police Department. Penaloza is accused of killing Ethan Morse, the 22-year-old son of former DA Larry Morse.

The younger Morse was found shot March 15 inside an Atwater home. Police responding Friday to the 1800 block of Fir Avenue around 10 a.m. regarding a report of a shooting found Morse. He was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.

Police say Penaloza frequents the area of Atwater and Modesto working in the landscaping business, but it is unknown how and why his path and the victim's crossed.

Police say if you see the suspect, do not approach him, as he is considered armed and dangerous. Instead, call 911 to report his whereabouts.