RIVERSIDE COUNTY — The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help in an ongoing homicide investigation following the fatal shooting of a Home Gardens man last month.
On Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at approximately 1 a.m., deputies assigned to the Lake Mathews Sheriff’s Station responded to a report of an unresponsive man in the 3000 block of Grant Street in the unincorporated community of Home Gardens.
When deputies arrived, they located a 47-year-old man suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Deputies and paramedics attempted lifesaving measures, but the victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
During the investigation, homicide investigators identified the victim as Carlos Villa, 47, of Home Gardens.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Central Homicide Unit assumed the investigation and continues to actively pursue leads. Investigators are seeking information from anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area or who may have information related to the shooting.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Central Homicide Investigator [Name if available] at the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office at (951) 955-2777. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or online at www.riversidecountycrimestoppers.org.
The investigation remains ongoing.
About the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office serves the residents of Riverside County through law enforcement, corrections and court services, and remains committed to protecting public safety and pursuing justice for victims of crime.
