Moreno Valley tragedy leaves 19-year-old Angelo Leivas dead as Riverside County Sheriff begins homicide investigation
Moreno Valley tragedy leaves 19-year-old Angelo Leivas dead as Riverside County Sheriff begins homicide investigation
Moreno Valley, Calif. — A devastating shooting in Moreno Valley has claimed the life of 19-year-old Angelo Leivas of Banning, prompting an urgent homicide investigation by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities confirmed the incident occurred on the evening of August 16, 2025, leaving family, friends, and the wider community in shock.
Deputies reported responding to the scene following multiple emergency calls regarding shots fired in a Moreno Valley neighborhood. When officers arrived, they discovered Leivas with serious gunshot wounds. Despite immediate lifesaving efforts by first responders and paramedics, the teenager was later pronounced deceased.
Law enforcement officials quickly secured the area, gathering evidence and speaking with potential witnesses. Another young man, whose identity has not yet been publicly released, has been taken into custody as part of the ongoing homicide investigation. Authorities emphasized that this remains an active case, and more details will be shared as they become available.
Investigators are piecing together what led to the violence, reviewing surveillance footage from surrounding homes and businesses, and interviewing neighbors. Early reports suggest that the shooting may have stemmed from an argument, though officials have not confirmed any official motive. The Sheriff’s Office has assured the public that there is no immediate threat to the community.
As word of Leivas’ passing spread, grief quickly poured across Banning and Moreno Valley. Friends described him as a kind, ambitious, and hardworking young man with a promising future ahead. Loved ones expressed heartbreak at the thought of a life cut far too soon, leaving behind memories filled with laughter, friendship, and dreams that now remain unfulfilled.
Community leaders and advocates have spoken out about the incident, urging peace and unity while highlighting the need for stronger initiatives to address violence among young people. Candlelight vigils are already being planned in both Banning and Moreno Valley to honor Leivas’ life and provide support for grieving family and friends.
Authorities encouraged anyone with information about the case to come forward. The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office has established an anonymous tip line, underscoring the importance of community cooperation in ensuring justice is served. Detectives stressed that even the smallest detail could prove vital in piecing together the events of that tragic night.
For residents of Moreno Valley, the shooting has reignited conversations about neighborhood safety. While crime rates in the region have shown fluctuation in recent years, the loss of such a young life has reminded many that preventing violence requires both community involvement and institutional support.
Officials have promised transparency as the case moves forward, pledging to keep the public informed of developments. The Sheriff’s Office also extended condolences to Leivas’ family, affirming that their deepest commitment is to seek justice on behalf of the young man whose life was taken.
As Moreno Valley mourns, one family now faces unimaginable grief, a community searches for healing, and investigators press forward with a homicide case that has left an indelible mark on all who knew Angelo Leivas.
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