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An adult male subject, identified as Eduardo Castro, was found deceased in the flowing water of the Santa Clara River, just south of the A Street bridge, in the unincorporated area of Fillmore.
On Thursday, 04/02/2026, at approximately 1:38 p.m., patrol units from the Fillmore Police Department responded to a call of a human body found in the flowing water of the Santa Clara River, just south of the A Street Bridge in Fillmore. The body was partially submerged and was caught up in foliage located near the center of the swift flowing water. The Ventura County Fire Department arrived, pulled the body of an adult male ashore, and pronounced the male deceased.
Suspicious injuries were located on the male’s body which indicated that he may have been the victim of an assault. The man was positively identified as local unhoused resident, Eduardo Castro, 43. Investigators from the Fillmore Police Department and Major Crimes Bureau responded and Castro’s death is being investigated as a homicide. The Major Crimes Bureau assumed lead in the investigation.
Sheriff’s Major Crimes is actively investigating this incident. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Bill Meixner at (805) 384-4727. At this time, this appears to be an isolated incident, with no on-going threat to the public.
Prepared by: Sergeant Bill Meixner
News Release Date: 04/03/2026
Approved by: Captain Victor Medina
Booking Photo Release: NO
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Nature of Incident: Homicide Investigation
Report Number: 26-41570
Location: Santa Clara River Bottom in Fillmore
Date & Time: 04/02/2026 @ 1:38 p.m.
Unit(s) Responsible: Major Crimes Bureau; Fillmore Detective Bureau; Fillmore Patrol; Homeless Liaison Unit; Crime Scene Investigations Unit; Ventura County Fire Department; Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent; City of Residence, Age
(V) Eduardo Castro, Fillmore, 43
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Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information, which leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against the person(s) responsible for this crime. The caller may remain anonymous. The call is not recorded. Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).

Homicide victim, 43, Eduardo Castro, of Fillmore, Ca

Courtesy of GoFundMe Link https://www.gofundme.com/f/a-loving-farewell-for-eduardo-castro-lalo
My brother, Eduardo Castro, known to many as Lalo, was born on January 15, 1983, and passed away at just 43 years old. He was a deeply kind and selfless person who always found ways to give, even when he had little. Whether it was family, friends, or someone in need, Eduardo showed up with a generous heart and a willingness to help without hesitation.
His loss has left an emptiness that words can’t fully capture. Eduardo lived with a quiet strength and compassion that touched so many lives. He believed in putting others first and never thought twice about offering what he could to make someone else’s day a little easier.
As our family comes together to honor his life, we are facing the unexpected costs of funeral and memorial arrangements. We want to give Eduardo the farewell he deserves, one that reflects the love and care he gave so freely.
Any support will help ease this financial burden as we navigate this painful time and begin the process of healing. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this page or keeping our family in your thoughts and prayers means just as much. Visit https://gofund.me/2f84869e5 to donate.

On 03/29/2026, at about 11:30 AM, deputies from the Fillmore Station responded to the area of Mountain View Street in Fillmore referenced a stolen vehicle broadcast.
Upon arrival, deputies located the stolen vehicle and observed a male, later identified as (S) Angel Romero, 19 of Santa Paula, walking away from the vehicle. Deputies contacted and detained Romero pursuant to the stolen vehicle investigation.
As the investigation unfolded, deputies obtained additional evidence linking Romero to the stolen vehicle and ultimately arrested him for violation of Vehicle Code § 10851(a) – [Unlawful Taking of a Vehicle] and Penal Code § 496d(a) – [Grand Theft Auto]. While the car thief was given a ride to jail and booked for the offenses, the stolen vehicle was returned to its rightful owner.
Over the next few days, patrol resources collaborated with detectives with the Fillmore Detective Unit on the investigation and learned there were likely co-conspirators involved with stealing the vehicle. With patrol’s assistance, detectives identified at least one additional suspect involved in the crime.
On 04/02/2026, patrol deputies and Fillmore detectives contacted the co-conspirator during a probation search in the 400 block of Mountain View Street, near where the stolen vehicle was recovered. The suspected co-conspirator, (S) Destiny Aguilar, 21 of Fillmore, was arrested without incident for violation of Vehicle Code § 10851(a) – [Unlawful Taking of a Vehicle] and Penal Code § 182(a)(1) – [Conspiracy to Commit a Crime]. She was transported to the Pre-Trial Detention Facility where she was booked for the offenses pending court proceedings.
Any person with information regarding the stolen vehicle is encouraged to reach out to detectives and utilize the link or QR code provided to download and submit any video footage of the incident. https://venturasheriffca.evidence.com/axon/community-request/public/26-4... or by scanning the following QR code:
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank members of the public for their on-going support and due diligence in providing information to assist our agency in solving crimes. We are better at what we do because of our community partnerships.Join us in the fight on crime by following us on “X” @fillmoresheriff, Facebook, Instagram @VCSHERIFF and @FILLMOREPD, and with Nixle by texting your zip code to 888777 to receive local law enforcement and public safety alerts and advisories.
Prepared by: Sergeant Jarrod Foote
News Release Date: 04/03/2026
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon
Booking Photo Release: NO
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Nature of Incident: Co-Conspirators Arrested for Stealing Car
Report Number: 26-40128 & 26-41718
Location: 400 block of Mountain View Street, Fillmore
Date & Time: 03/29/2026, 11:30 AM
Unit(s) Responsible: Fillmore Patrol, Fillmore Detective Unit, Sheriff’s Dispatch
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent; City of Residence; Age
(V) Adult, Oxnard, N/A
(S) Angel Romero, Santa Paula, 19
(S) Destiny Aguilar, Fillmore, 21
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Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information, which leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against the person(s) responsible for this crime. The caller may remain anonymous. The call is not recorded. Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).

On Wednesday, 04/01/2026, (S) Christian Guerra, a 29-year-old Piru resident, was arrested for his involvement with a felony graffiti vandalism.
Graffiti vandalism is an eyesore that directly affects the quality of life in our communities. If left unchecked, graffiti can decrease property values and lead to the deterioration of entire neighborhoods. Graffiti may also be the catalyst for additional, more serious crimes affecting our communities. The removal of graffiti costs homeowners, business owners and taxpayers thousands of dollars each year. The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office is committed to responding to public concerns in a manner that builds confidence in our agency and strengthens relationships to empower businesses and residents to be the eyes and ears of the community.
At about 7:30 PM, patrol deputies from the Sheriff’s Fillmore Station observed a suspicious subject near the railroad in the unincorporated agricultural area east of Fillmore near the Piru community. The subject was identified as (S) Christian Guerra, a local tagger who discharged probation in October 2025 for vandalism convictions which caused thousands of dollars in property damage to the communities of Fillmore and Piru. Guerra had paint and vandalism tools on his person.
A canvass of the nearby area resulted in the discovery of additional evidence and recent graffiti to a nearby railcar estimated to be in thousands of dollars. As a result of the investigation by patrol deputies, Guerra was arrested for Penal Code § 594(b)(1) – [Felony Graffiti Vandalism] and Penal Code § 594.2 – [Possession of Graffiti Tools]. He was transported to the Pre-Trial Detention Facility where he was booked pending court proceedings.
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank members of the public for their on-going support and due diligence in providing information to assist our agency in solving crimes. We are better at what we do because of our community partnerships. Join us in the fight on crime by following us on “X” @fillmoresheriff, Facebook, Instagram @VCSHERIFF and @FILLMOREPD, and with Nixle by texting your zip code to 888777 to receive local law enforcement and public safety alerts and advisories.
Prepared by: Sergeant Jarrod Foote
News Release Date: 04/03/2026
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon
Booking Photo Release: NO
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Nature of Incident: Repeat Offender Arrested for Graffiti Vandalism
Report Number: 26-41552
Location: Unincorporated Area East of Fillmore Near Piru
Date & Time: 04/01/2026 @ 7:30 PM
Unit(s) Responsible: Sheriff’s Fillmore Station Patrol Resources
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent; City of Residence; Age
(V) Sierra Railway
(S) Christian Guerra, Piru, 29
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Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information, which leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against the person(s) responsible for this crime. The caller may remain anonymous. The call is not recorded. Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) Ventura, Moorpark and Newhall Areas, in partnership with Fillmore and Santa Paula Police Departments, will be conducting targeted enforcement operations on SR-126, to enhance roadway safety and reduce traffic-related incidents.
The 40-mile stretch of SR-126 that connects US-101 in Ventura, to 1-5 in Santa Clarita, has experienced a concerning number of fatal and serious injury crashes. Through high-visibility enforcement, the CHP and its partners, aim to reduce these incidents and promote safer driving practices for all motorists. The operation will focus on identifying and addressing speeding, distracted driving, unsafe lane changes and driving under the influence violations, all of which are primary causes of crashes. Officers and deputies will be strategically deployed throughout the corridor to ensure compliance with traffic laws and to deter dangerous driving behaviors.
The goal of this collaborative effort is to save lives and ensure everyone reaches their destination safely.
Motorists are reminded to:
Obey posted speed limits
• Avoid distractions while driving
• Always wear a seatbelt
• Never drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs
• Maintain a safe following distance
Be a courteous and defensive driver

Photo credit Angel Esquivel
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Photo credit Angel Esquivel
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Photo credit Angel Esquivel
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Photo credit Angel Esquivel
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Photo credit Angel Esquivel
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Photo credit Angel Esquivel
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Photo credit Angel Esquivel
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Photo credit Angel Esquivel
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Photo credit Angel Esquivel
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A large bear was spotted in the 800 block on Blaine Street in North Fillmore on Monday and Tuesday, March 30-31. It migrated to the 800 block of Fourth Street on Wednesday, April 1st, and was roaming between Fourth and Edison Lane. A large crowd gathered, taking videos until the police dispersed them. Fish & Game arrived about 10am and were actively trying to get the bear out from under an RV. It appeared to have an injured jaw. At press time (2:30pm) the bear had been tranquilized and captured. The City of Fillmore and the Fillmore Police Department released the following on Instagram and Facebook pages: The City of Fillmore and the Fillmore Police Department would like to notify residents of a bear sighting in the 800 block of 4th Street.
As a precaution, we ask community members to avoid the area while officers monitor the situation and coordinate with wildlife authorities. Nearby residents are advised to stay alert and keep children and pets indoors until further notice.
If you meet a bear:
• Don’t come closer or run
• Keep a safe distance
• Make yourself look bigger and step back slowly
• Report the sighting immediately to the Fillmore Police Department
Minimize leaving food or other smelly products outside, as they can lure the bear.
Our officers are actively scouting the area to ensure the safety of the community. We will provide updates as more information becomes available.
Thank you for your cooperation and helping keep the Fillmore community safe.

On 02/26/2026, a 20-year-old Thousand Oaks residence, (S) Anthony Andrade was arrested for possession of an unregistered firearm and illegal possession of nitrous oxide.
At about 11:27 PM, a deputy working patrol in the City of Fillmore conducted a traffic stop on a sedan near the intersection of A Street at First Street in Fillmore. Andrade was the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle. As a result of the traffic stop investigation, deputies located a loaded unregistered/serialized handgun, often referred to as a “ghost gun.” The term “ghost gun,” is used to describe firearms which lack serial numbers or markings. Additionally, ghost guns are illegally transferred without the use of a federal firearms license dealer, which makes the firearms untraceable by law enforcement and are preferred by criminals. The prevalence of these firearms has been on the rise in recent years.
In addition to the loaded firearm, deputies located a nitrous oxide tank. Nitrous oxide is a legal, widely used substance in California for medical, dental and culinary applications. However, possessing or using nitrous oxide for purposes of intoxication is illegal and considered a misdemeanor. The illegal ingestion of nitrous oxide can lead to serious health risks.
Ultimately, Andrade was arrested for violations of Penal Code § 25850(a) – [Carrying a Loaded Firearm on Person], Penal Code § 25400(a)(1) – [Carrying a Concealed Firearm in Vehicle], and Penal Code § 27545 – [Unlawful Firearm Transfer], and Penal Code § 381b – [Possession of Nitrous Oxide]. Andrade was transported and booked at the Pre-Trial Detention Facility and later posted bail for the offenses.
On 03/26/2026, detectives from the Fillmore Detective Unit, West County Special Enforcement Unit, and the Moorpark Special Enforcement Unit executed a search warrant at Andrade’s residence, located in the 2000 block of Los Feliz Drive in Thousand Oaks. During the warrant service, detectives located additional evidence linking Andrade to the crimes.
Andrade remains out of custody on bail for the offenses.
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank members of the public for their on-going support and due diligence in providing information to assist our agency in solving crimes. We are better at what we do because of our community partnerships. Join us in the fight on crime by following us on “X” @fillmoresheriff, Facebook, Instagram @VCSHERIFF and @FILLMOREPD, and with Nixle by texting your zip code to 888777 to receive local law enforcement and public safety alerts and advisories.
Prepared by: Sergeant Jarrod Foote
News Release Date: 03/27/2026
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon
Booking Photo Release: NO
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Nature of Incident: Firearm Arrest
Report Number: 26-26062
Location: A Street at First Street, Fillmore
Date & Time: 02/26/2026, 11:27 PM
Unit(s) Responsible: Fillmore Patrol, Fillmore Detective Unit, West County Special Enforcement Unit, Moorpark Special Enforcement Unit
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent; City of Residence; Age
(S) Anthony Andrade, Thousand Oaks, 20
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Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information, which leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against the person(s) responsible for this crime. The caller may remain anonymous. The call is not recorded. Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).