Oakland, California – Authorities in Oakland, California are seeking the public’s assistance in solving the murder of a 23-year-old man whose body was found stuffed in a suitcase, floating in Lake Merritt, according to a press release.
The victim has been identified as Gabriel Gomez Raymundo. The Oakland Police Department is urging anyone with information about Raymundo’s background, including his residence, work, and associates, to come forward.
Officials have offered a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to an arrest in the homicide case. The cause and manner of Raymundo’s death have not yet been disclosed.
The investigation began on the morning of October 31 when authorities received a call reporting a body in the 1900 block of Lakeshore Avenue. Officers arrived at the scene and found the victim with unidentified injuries, and called for medical assistance. Homicide investigators were then brought in to initiate an inquiry.
The victim, Gabriel Gomez Raymundo, had been living in the United States for approximately eight years and was originally from Guatemala. Reports suggest he may have been homeless.
Volunteers cleaning the shore on Halloween day discovered the partially submerged suitcase. They were surprised by the weight of the luggage and upon opening it, were horrified to find a body covered in a sheet. The volunteers immediately contacted 911 to report their findings.
The Oakland Police Department is urging anyone who may have information about Gabriel Gomez Raymundo and the circumstances surrounding his death to come forward. The case remains under investigation as authorities work to piece together the puzzle of this tragic incident.