FRESNO (KMJ) — A new suspect is being sought in connection with the murder of Janessa Ramirez – but he might have already left the valley.
Fresno Police are now actively searching for Donte Hawkins.
They've confirmed the 21 year old was in the car with Isaac Stafford during the drive by shooting – but they now believe hawkins is in northern California.
Stafford – however – is a free man after he was released from jail a few days ago pending further investigation.
It was less than a week ago when Police Chief Jerry Dyer announced the arrest of Isaac Stafford and Brian Cooks. The other person Chief Dyer is refering to has been confirmed today as Donte Hawkins.
"Investigators have determined that Stafford and possibly a second person left a residence at 2531 North Marks driving a gray two door Dodge Challenger. They traveled south bound on Marks at a low speed".
"They saw Brian Cooks riding a skateboard northbound on the sidewalk west of Marks and north of Clinton. Cooks and Stafford are rival gang members. Immediately an exchange of gunfire erupted between Cooks and the occupants of the Dodge Challenger".
"Stafford did ultimately admit to being in the Dodge Charger when the exchange of gunfire occurred", said Chief Dyer on Friday.
Meanwhile – Brian Cooks remains jailed after pleading not guilty to murder charges.
Janessa Ramirez died after being hit by a stray bullet – which police say was fired by Cooks.
Anyone with information on Donte Hawkins' whereabouts is being asked to call Crime Stoppers on 498-STOP.
