Jasmine Hernandez Ascencio and Joshua Anthony Reveles Identified as Victims in Oildale Double Homicide: Community Grieves as Investigation Into Tragic May 26 Deaths Intensifies on Park Meadows Drive

OILDALE, CALIFORNIA — A solemn cloud has descended over the quiet neighborhood of Park Meadows Drive in Oildale, as family, friends, and the broader Kern County community mourn the shocking deaths of two young adults found inside a home on the morning of May 26, 2025. The Kern County Coroner’s Office has identified the victims as 31-year-old Jasmine Hernandez Ascencio and 25-year-old Joshua Anthony Reveles, both residents of Bakersfield, California. Their untimely and violent deaths have left many asking how such a tragedy could unfold behind the closed doors of a suburban home.

Discovery of the Scene

At approximately 8:20 a.m. on May 26, deputies from the Kern County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) responded to a call regarding a welfare check at a residence on the 2600 block of Park Meadows Drive, a typically quiet and residential part of Oildale, just north of Bakersfield. The nature of the call has not been publicly disclosed, but what deputies discovered upon entering the home was nothing short of horrifying.

Inside, authorities located the bodies of Ascencio and Reveles, both showing signs of trauma consistent with homicide. Though the Sheriff’s Office has not released details about the manner or cause of death, officials confirmed that foul play is suspected and that a homicide investigation was immediately launched.

The area was quickly cordoned off with yellow crime scene tape, and forensics teams were seen entering and exiting the residence for hours. Neighbors reported a flurry of law enforcement activity and expressed disbelief at what had occurred so close to home.

Who Were Jasmine and Joshua?

As investigators work to piece together the events that led to the deaths of Jasmine Hernandez Ascencio and Joshua Anthony Reveles, loved ones are remembering two lives that, although cut short, left a profound mark on those who knew them.

Jasmine Hernandez Ascencio, 31, was described by family and friends as a compassionate and fiercely loyal individual. A Bakersfield native, she was known for her close-knit relationship with her siblings and her role as a supportive daughter. She had been pursuing a career in health care, according to those close to her, and was admired for her resilience and nurturing personality. Jasmine had faced personal challenges, but friends say she always kept her heart open and was working hard to build a better life for herself and those she cared about.

Joshua Anthony Reveles, 25, was remembered as an energetic and creative young man with a strong sense of humor and a deep love for music. Born and raised in the Bakersfield area, Joshua had been involved in the local music scene and was known for his artistic drive and his warm, easygoing nature. He had recently started pursuing new opportunities and was reportedly excited about the future, making his sudden and violent death all the more tragic.

No Suspects Yet, But Investigation Remains Active

As of the time of this writing, no arrests have been made in connection with the killings. The Kern County Sheriff’s Office has remained tight-lipped about possible suspects or motives, though they have stated that the investigation remains active and ongoing. Detectives are reportedly reviewing security camera footage from nearby homes, interviewing witnesses and acquaintances, and analyzing forensic evidence recovered from the scene.

“We are working diligently to determine what happened and to bring justice for the victims,” said a spokesperson from the KCSO. Authorities are encouraging anyone with information, no matter how seemingly insignificant, to contact the department at (661) 861-3110 or the Secret Witness Program at (661) 322-4040.

A Community in Shock

In the days since the incident, friends and relatives of the victims have taken to social media to express their grief and call for justice. Memorials have sprung up online and at the site of the tragedy, with flowers, candles, and hand-written notes placed outside the home on Park Meadows Drive. Heartfelt messages describe Jasmine and Joshua as “beautiful souls,” “gone too soon,” and “deeply loved.”

Neighbors, too, have been stunned by the killings. “This is a quiet neighborhood. We never expected something like this to happen right next door,” said one longtime resident, who asked not to be named. “It’s terrifying, and heartbreaking. Those young people had their whole lives ahead of them.”

Local churches and community organizations have offered support to those grieving the loss, including grief counseling and vigils to honor the victims. The tragedy has sparked broader conversations about safety, mental health, and the signs that may precede domestic violence or escalating interpersonal conflict—though investigators have not publicly stated whether such factors played a role in the killings.

Patterns and Questions: A Wider Concern?

While the Oildale case is still under investigation, it has reignited discussions about rising violent crime rates in parts of Kern County. Though overall crime rates fluctuate year-to-year, local law enforcement agencies have reported an uptick in domestic and interpersonal violence, particularly involving young adults between the ages of 20 and 35.

Community advocates are calling for increased resources to support early intervention programs, crisis response teams, and better access to behavioral health services, especially in underserved neighborhoods.

“This can’t keep happening,” said a representative from a local advocacy group. “We need to ensure that people have somewhere to turn before things reach a breaking point.”

Remembering Jasmine and Joshua

As the investigation continues, the focus remains on honoring the memory of the two victims.

Jasmine’s family has shared plans to host a memorial service in Bakersfield, inviting those who knew her to come together and celebrate her life. “She loved deeply, cared freely, and gave so much of herself,” said her sister in a public Facebook post. “We will not let her story end with this violence. We will carry her light forward.”

Joshua’s loved ones are organizing a music-focused celebration of life, where his friends will perform in his honor. “He had such a passion for life,” said one friend. “He brought people together, and that’s what we want to do for him now.”

What Comes Next?

For the families of Jasmine Hernandez Ascencio and Joshua Anthony Reveles, the road ahead is one of mourning, healing, and, hopefully, justice. For the broader community, their deaths serve as a tragic reminder of the fragility of life and the urgency of addressing the conditions that contribute to violence.

The Kern County Sheriff’s Office has pledged transparency and diligence in its handling of the case. As more information becomes available, the public will be updated—but for now, the families ask for privacy and continued support.

Anyone with knowledge related to the case is urged to reach out to local authorities.

If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of harm or is in an unsafe situation, please contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. Help is available.