Merced police seek public help in unsolved homicides

Merced police on Wednesday asked for the public’s help to identify suspects in two unsolved homicide cases from last year.

“Investigators admit it has been a tough go on both these cases with few leads at the time of each homicide and only a few tips coming in,” Sgt. Scott Skinner said in a news release.

“Investigators continue to work hard on each case because you don’t know when the next piece of information will be developed that can lead to the arrest of the suspects,” Skinner said.

Both cases are believed to be gang-related.

Detectives are hoping for additional information in the Oct. 2, 2014, death of 27-year-old Steven Mays, who was shot and killed at the intersection of West 11th and M streets in Merced.

“Investigators have been able to develop a person of interest in this case and that is why it is so important if anyone has information, they need to come forward and contact the detective on the case,” Skinner said.

Police are also looking for help in the Dec. 7, 2014, death of Ismael Escalante, 24, who was gunned down at the now-defunct La Hacienda restaurant, 3146 G St. in Merced.

“Investigators admit they do not have a person of interest in this case, but recently have come across a couple of names they are looking into,” Skinner said.

He said officers regularly contact gang members and others in hopes of generating leads in both cases. He also indicated people with criminal histories and cases are sometimes willing to help police to get themselves potentially better deals in court.

“When people get caught up on a charge and they have a criminal history, they are more willing to help themselves out. It basically becomes, ‘I have information and what can you do to help me?’” Skinner said.

“I know it’s hard for some of the public to understand why we make deals with some individuals, but in the long run a homicide conviction is better than a theft conviction,” he said.

Police believe there are individuals out there who have information on each of these cases or have heard someone talking about the cases. “These are the individuals we need to come forward,” he said.

This story was originally published April 29, 2015 at 7:42 PM with the headline "Merced police seek public help in unsolved homicides."