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1300+A second suspect wanted in connection with a deadly shooting at a McFarland laundromat has turned himself in to authorities, according to the McFarland Police Department.
Nineteen-year-old Elvis Garcia surrendered on the night of September 9, 2026, police confirmed the following day. Garcia had been named in an arrest warrant tied to the fatal shooting of 26-year-old Alfonzo Jacobo Espitia.
What Happened at the Laundromat
The shooting occurred on August 22, 2026, at around 3:18 p.m. at a laundromat in the 100 block of West Perkins Avenue in McFarland.
Officers responding to the scene found Espitia suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He died at the scene. The Kern County Coroner’s Office later confirmed his identity.
Investigators determined that two individuals entered the laundromat shortly before the shooting took place.
Garcia’s Alleged Role in the Homicide
Police identified 18-year-old Joshua Gonzalez Cortez as the individual who confronted Espitia and shot him multiple times. Garcia entered the laundromat alongside Cortez and is alleged to have been involved in the homicide as well.
Both men had arrest warrants issued against them. Cortez faces a first-degree murder charge.
Search Continues for Second Suspect
While Garcia is now in custody, Cortez remains at large. Police describe Cortez, a Richgrove resident in Tulare County, as a documented Norteño gang member identified through prior law enforcement contacts and corroborating evidence.
McFarland police are offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to Cortez’s arrest. Anonymous tips are accepted.
Anyone with information is asked to call the McFarland Police Department at (661) 792-2121.
Legal Help for Victims of Violent Crime in Kern County
Violent crimes like this laundromat shooting can leave families searching for answers and justice. If you or a loved one has been affected by a violent crime in McFarland or elsewhere in Kern County, a Bakersfield personal injury attorney can help you understand your criminal or civil legal options for pursuing accountability and compensation.
About the Author
JEFFREY FAYNGOR, ESQ.
Jeffrey Fayngor is the founder of Attorney Jeff Car Accident Lawyer and an experienced personal injury attorney dedicated to representing accident victims. He earned his J.D. from Whittier College School of Law and has recovered over $120 million for injured clients. He has built his practice around helping injury victims protect their rights and pursue the compensation they deserve.