Deputies arrest man in connection with Merced County homicide

A suspect has been arrested in connection with a Merced County homicide investigation, according to authorities.

Jacob Arnold Khaoone, 28, was booked into Merced County Jail on Thursday on suspicion of first degree murder, according to jail records. In a Merced County Sheriff’s Office social media post on Friday, authorities said Khaoone was arrested in connection with the death of 36-year-old Toontep Champa.

Deputies responded to the 400 block of Mission Avenue at about 8:30 a.m. Monday, where they located Champa unresponsive in a field behind a residence. He was later pronounced deceased.

According to Deputy Daryl Allen, Champa was found with “apparent trauma to the body.”

Merced County Sheriff’s Office detectives continue to investigate the incident and ask anyone with information to call 209-385-7472, according to the post. Those who provide information can remain anonymous.