Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department detectives made an arrest in the homicide which took place just outside of Riverbank on Highway 108 early afternoon on Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021.

The suspect taken into custody was identified as 42-year-old Riverbank resident Jose Valencia. He was booked into the Stanislaus County Jail on murder charges and his bail was set in excess of $3 million.

He currently has a court date of Dec. 6 in the case.

Authorities identified the victim who was fatally wounded by gunfire during the altercation as Ernesto Gonzalez, 36, of Oakdale.

The investigation remains active and ongoing.

Members of the community are urged to contact Detective Summerton at 209-652-1069 if they have more details to share. Spanish speakers can call Detective Esquivez at 209-652-1792. Tipsters can also remain anonymous by calling 1-800-602-7463.