California Triple Homicide Suspect Lived With Victims, Faced Outstanding DUI Warrant

The suspect in a triple homicide that shocked the Modesto community has been identified as a family member who lived in the victims’ home.

The Modesto Police Department announced that 28-year-old Joaquin Escoto was taken into custody after allegedly stabbing three people to death, including his partner, Fabiola Gonzalez-Nunez, 23; their 2-week-old child; and Gonzalez-Nunez’s mother, Maria Sylvia Nunez-Villalobos, 54.

Following his arrest, Escoto was booked into the Stanislaus County Jail on three counts of murder, special-circumstance enhancements, use of a deadly weapon, and an outstanding Modesto Police Department warrant connected to a prior DUI case.

Authorities said the couple’s 3-year-old child was present and unharmed at the residence in the 1600 block of Monterey Avenue. Child Protective Services later took custody of the child.

“This remains an active investigation. Detectives continue to review evidence, conduct follow-up interviews, and work closely with the Stanislaus County District Attorney’s Office,” the Modesto Police Department said in a statement posted on social media.

“Our thoughts remain with the victims’ family, loved ones, and all those impacted by this heartbreaking tragedy.”

On May 28, shortly after 9:20 a.m., officers responded to the residence after receiving reports of a disturbance.

Upon arrival, officers found Gonzalez-Nunez suffering from multiple stab wounds. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

As officers continued searching the residence, they discovered Nunez-Villalobos and the infant child, both suffering from apparent stab wounds. Nunez-Villalobos was pronounced dead at the scene. The infant was transported to a local hospital, where the child was later pronounced dead.

“During the initial response, officers quickly established a perimeter after information gathered at the scene led investigators to believe the suspect remained in the area. The Modesto Police Department Hostage Negotiation Team, SWAT, and Investigations Division responded to assist,” authorities said.

As a precaution, Orville Wright Elementary School was placed on lockdown during the incident.

Due to the anticipated duration of law enforcement activity, Modesto City Schools coordinated the precautionary relocation of students and staff to La Loma Junior High School.

“Students and staff were safely transported, and reunification efforts were successfully completed. Modesto City Schools provided updates to parents throughout the incident, and the Modesto Police Department worked closely with school officials to help ensure the safety of all involved,” authorities said.

Escoto was later located hiding inside a nearby residence and taken into custody without incident.

Based on the preliminary investigation, detectives believe the stabbings were an isolated incident and that there is no ongoing threat to the public.

A motive has not yet been established.

A GoFundMe page has been created by loved ones to help the family in the wake of the tragedy.

“Three beloved members of our family was taken from us: Silvia Nuñez, a loving grandmother whose kindness and strength touched everyone around her. Fabiola Gonzalez, a devoted mother, daughter, and loved one who brought joy and love to those fortunate enough to know her and baby Mateo Gonzalez, an innocent child whose life was taken far too soon,” Marisa Jimenez wrote on the fundraising page.

“In a single moment, generations of love, memories, and dreams for the future were taken from us. As we grieve the loss of Silvia, Fabiola, and baby Mateo, we are trying to navigate the emotional and financial burdens that come with such an unimaginable tragedy,” Jimenez added.

The family is seeking assistance with funeral and memorial expenses, counseling and support services, and immediate needs for loved ones affected by the tragedy.