The Riverside Sheriff’s Central Homicide Unit continues its investigation into the fatal shooting of Giovanni Martinez, a 30-year-old Perris resident, whose life was tragically cut short earlier this month.
Authorities have identified Raul Varela, a 51-year-old resident of Turlock, California, as the suspect in the murder case. On Saturday, August 9, 2025, at approximately 7:00 p.m., with support from the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office Gang Impact Team and the Riverside Sheriff’s Special Enforcement Bureau, deputies located Varela near the intersection of Woodward Street and Elizabeth Street in the unincorporated Mead Valley area of Perris. He was taken into custody peacefully and without incident.
Following his arrest, Varela was booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center on charges of murder.
The investigation began on the evening of Thursday, August 7, 2025, at approximately 8:49 p.m., when deputies from the Perris Sheriff’s Station responded to reports of an assault with a deadly weapon near the same intersection. Upon arrival, they found an adult male on the ground suffering from a suspected gunshot wound. Despite efforts by emergency responders to save him, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
At the time, the victim’s identity was withheld pending notification of next of kin. The Riverside Sheriff’s Central Homicide Unit assumed responsibility for the investigation and initially had no suspect information. However, through ongoing work and collaboration with specialized task forces, law enforcement was able to identify and apprehend Varela.
The investigation remains active, and detectives continue to follow leads and gather evidence to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Authorities urge anyone with additional information related to this case to come forward.
Individuals with tips or information are encouraged to contact Master Investigator D. Robertson of the Central Homicide Unit at (951) 955-1777, or the Perris Sheriff’s Station at (951) 210-1000. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Sheriff’s Dispatch at (951) 776-1099.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office expresses gratitude for the community’s cooperation and emphasizes its commitment to ensuring justice for Giovanni Martinez and the safety of Perris residents.