Deputies Seeking Monterey Co. Woman Suspected In Fatal Shooting

MONTEREY COUNTY, CA — Sheriff's officials in Monterey County are asking for the public's help to locate a woman who allegedly killed another woman Thursday evening at a Castroville home. At 7:09 p.m., deputies responded to a report of a verbal disturbance at a home in the 10300 block of Merritt Street, according to sheriff's officials.

While enroute, deputies learned that a person had been shot. At the scene, they located a 37-year-old Castroville woman, later identified as Cynthia Medina, unconscious and without a pulse. Deputies and
medical personnel attempted life-saving procedures, however, Medina was pronounced dead at the scene, sheriff's officials said.

Following a preliminary investigation, detectives were able to identify the suspect as 28-year-old Castroville resident Melissa Paniagua. Sheriff's officials are seeking Paniagua, who they believe may be armed.
They'd also like to talk to Paniagua's sister, identified as 35-year-old Sylvia Navarro of Castroville, who is not a suspect, but is believed to have knowledge about the case.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Monterey County Sheriff's Office at (831) 755-3722 and ask for Detective Rick Jorgensen or Detective Sgt. Bryan Hoskins.

By Bay City News

Photo courtesy Monterey County Sheriff's Office