Perry Paul Espinosa, 38, Shot and Killed in Southwest Fresno

Perry Paul Espinosa, 38, was shot multiple times and killed late Thursday night on the 1000 block of East Samson Avenue in southwest Fresno, marking the sixth homicide in the city so far in 2026.

Officers and emergency medical personnel responded around 10 p.m. to reports of gunfire between MLK Jr. Boulevard and Clara Avenue. They found Espinosa unresponsive in the street, administered first aid, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Fresno Police Lt. Mike Pierce described the conditions officers encountered as "very chaotic," with a large crowd gathered outside near what appeared to be a house party. Police dispersed the crowd and secured the area before homicide detectives could begin their investigation.

Investigators believe a fight or disturbance involving multiple people preceded the shooting. Authorities say the shooter fled before officers arrived, and no suspect description or information about a getaway vehicle has been released. Homicide detectives have not determined a motive and say it remains unclear whether the killing was gang-related.

Espinosa was shot multiple times, though the exact number of gunshot wounds has not been disclosed. He was officially identified by the Fresno Police Department the following morning.

No arrests have been made. Pierce said investigators are working with several witnesses, though some individuals present at the scene were reluctant to cooperate.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Fresno Police Department at 559-621-7000. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 559-498-STOP. Homicide detectives C. Franks and R. Montoya can be reached directly at 559-621-2527 and 559-621-2449, respectively.