Federal Intervention in Morgan Hill Investigation
The FBI has officially joined the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office in its investigation into a deadly shooting that occurred during a large-scale, unpermitted party in rural Morgan Hill on July 25. Federal authorities announced on Wednesday that they are offering a reward of up to $20,000 for information leading to the identification and arrest of those responsible for the violence.
The incident took place late at night near the intersection of Hale and Miramonte Avenues, an area characterized by agricultural fields and rural properties. Sheriff’s deputies were initially dispatched to the location at approximately 10:15 p.m. following reports of disorderly conduct, specifically intoxicated individuals throwing bottles at passing vehicles. Upon arrival, officers encountered a chaotic scene with an estimated 300 partygoers fleeing the area amidst active gunfire.
Casualties and Ongoing Investigation
The gunfire resulted in the death of 18-year-old Desiderio “Desi” Romero V, a student preparing for his senior year of high school. In addition to the fatality, six other individuals sustained injuries and required treatment at local medical facilities. As of August 5, the Sheriff’s Office confirmed that no suspects have been identified or taken into custody.
Sheriff Robert Jonsen emphasized the difficulty of the investigation given the size of the crowd but expressed confidence that community cooperation will yield results. “With hundreds of people in attendance, someone knows something,” Jonsen stated. “We’ve asked for the FBI’s assistance, and we are calling on our community to help identify those responsible for this heinous crime.”
Calls for Public Cooperation
The event, described by officials as a “pop-up” birthday party, lacked any government sanctioning or permits. An individual claiming to have organized and promoted the gathering via Instagram has acknowledged their role and expressed remorse for the subsequent violence. However, investigators are focusing their efforts on the identities of those who opened fire.
To facilitate the collection of evidence, the FBI has launched a dedicated web portal at fbi.gov/morganhillshooting where the public can submit tips, photos, and video footage from the night of the shooting. Scott Schelble, the special agent in charge of the FBI’s San Francisco field office, stated, “No piece of information is too small, and your tip could make a difference in bringing justice to the victims, their families, and the Morgan Hill community.”
Authorities are urging anyone with relevant information to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI, or reach out to the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office directly at 408-808-4431 or via email at SHF.SOTips@shf.sccgov.org.