West Valley Police say they are “very close” to making arrests in the unsolved shooting death of a 16-year-old boy two years ago, but they’ve offered a $5,000 reward for information that will help them close the case.
At about 9:30 p.m. on May 30, 2017, Fernando Aranda was walking near his home when he was approached by several young men at 4700 West and Thayn Drive (3935 South). Neighbors reported the sounds of an argument and fighting, followed by gunshots.
When police arrived, Aranda was lying in the street. Despite efforts to save him, he died at the scene.
At the time, police reported that three or four suspects fled east in a mid-2000s white SUV, possibly a Ford Escape, which had approached Aranda as he was walking down the street.
The WVCPD is offering the $5,000 reward for information that leads to charges being filed in the case. According to a news release, police are “very close” to making an arrest, but “help from the public is needed.” And they’re asking for information about brothers name “Neto," “Nieto," “Necio” or “something similar.”
Anyone with information is asked to call 801-840-4000. According to police, tips can remain confidential.
Police have scheduled a news conference Thursday morning to discuss the case.