Investigators from the Central Homicide Unit have identified and arrested two suspects in connection with a murder case. The suspects, Adam Carl, 29, and Ruben Puentes, 28, both residents of Moreno Valley, were taken into custody on May 30, 2025. Their arrest was made possible through the collaboration of the Emergency Services Team and investigators from the Major Crimes Unit. Carl and Puentes have been charged with murder.
The investigation stems from an incident on November 1, 2024, when deputies from the Moreno Valley Station responded to a call about an assault with a deadly weapon at Dracaea Avenue in Moreno Valley. Upon arrival, they found Ralph Ortega, 45, suffering from gunshot wounds. Ortega was transported to a local hospital but later died from his injuries.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Central Homicide Unit is leading the ongoing investigation to identify all parties involved in this case. They urge anyone with additional information to contact Investigator Hood at (951) 955-2777 or Investigator McCracken at (951) 486-6700.
For media inquiries regarding this incident, contact should be directed to the Media Information Bureau.
