‘Extremely dangerous’ homicide suspect from Atwater remains at large

The search continues for an Atwater man wanted on a murder warrant in connection with the death of a 24-year-old Southern California man whose body was found in September in a shallow grave about 10 miles north of Winton.

Valente Lara Trellas, 45, is wanted in connection with the death of Christopher Hernandez, the Merced County Sheriff’s Department said.

Detective Ruben Orozco, the lead investigator, said deputies are hoping someone from the public will come forward with information regarding Trellas’ whereabouts.

“We’ve been unable to find him and have no leads,” Orozco said Wednesday.

Deputies stressed that any information received will be kept confidential.

Investigators said Hernandez’s body was found Sept. 10 in a makeshift grave near a river, close to a large marijuana garden. Deputies said there was evidence of a large gunbattle in the area. Hernandez had been shot repeatedly.

Detectives believe Trellas was illegally growing large amounts of marijuana in Merced County undetected for many years.

Hernandez had been reported missing earlier this year from his home in North Hills. Deputies discovered Hernandez’s body after receiving information in early September from the Los Angeles Police Department.

Investigators have characterized capturing Trellas as a top priority and have described him as “extremely dangerous.”

Orozco said it’s possible that Trellas has left the area and could be staying with family in Southern California.

This story was originally published December 3, 2014 at 2:33 PM with the headline "‘Extremely dangerous’ homicide suspect from Atwater remains at large."