Public Safety
Family seeks answers as San Juan Capistrano homicide investigation continues
Orange County sheriff's investigators continue seeking information in the October 7 stabbing death of 31-year-old San Juan Capistrano resident Valentin Onofre Martinez.
Deputies responded at about 8:10 p.m. October 7 to Calle Santa Barbara and Los Rios Street after witnesses reported a person on the ground with multiple stab wounds, according to the Orange County Sheriff's Department. Martinez was taken to a hospital and pronounced dead.
The Sheriff's Homicide and Gang Enforcement teams are investigating. Authorities said several people were detained at the scene, but ABC7 reported early Friday that no arrest had been announced and that investigators did not believe there was an ongoing threat to the public.
Victim: Valentin Onofre Martinez, 31
Incident: October 7 at Calle Santa Barbara and Los Rios Street
Status: Homicide investigation continues; no arrest announced
Information: Orange County Sheriff's Dispatch, 714-647-7000
Family asks for information
ABC7's October 16 follow-up identified Martinez as a father of three and reported that his family is seeking answers. The Sheriff's Department asked anyone with information to contact investigators; anonymous tips may be submitted through Orange County Crime Stoppers at 1-855-TIP-OCCS.
Official source: Orange County Sheriff's Department — October 8, 2026 →
Original follow-up reporting: ABC7 Los Angeles — October 16, 2026 →