Case Number: 15-02044

Posted by: Media Relations

****UPDATED NEWS RELEASE****

SUSPECTS ARRESTED IN CONNECTION WITH THE HOMICIDE OF ISAAC KATES.

Suspect 1: Andres Tapia, 19 years old, Terra Bella

Suspect 2: Alfredo Ibarra, 18 years old, Terra Bella

On 02-17-2015 at 1635 hours, Detectives with the Tulare County Sheriff’s Department Violent Crimes and SWAT executed two search warrants in the Town of Terra Bella in relation to the homicide of Isaac Kates. During the search warrant, Andres Tapia was located at his residence in the 9500 block of Road 238 and was taken into custody without incident. As a result of the investigation, Tapia was arrested for Homicide and Arson and booked at the Adult Pre-Trial Facility. 

On 02-18-2015 at 1800 hours, Detectives with the Tulare County Sheriff’s Department and Gang Violence Suppression Unit executed an additional search warrant at the residence of Alfredo Ibarra in Terra Bella. Ibarra was later contacted by the California Highway Patrol during a traffic stop in Porterville and taken into custody. Ibarra was arrested for Homicide and Arson and booked at the Adult Pre-Trial Facility.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Det. Steve Sanchez or Sgt. Rodney Parker of the Sheriff’s Departments Violent Crimes Unit @ (559) 735-1898 or (800) 808-0488 or you may send your information anonymously through the Sheriff’s TipNow program: 

Text or voicemail: 559-725-4194 or E-mail: tcso@tipnow.com

Please contact the Adult Pre Trial Facility for suspect photographs.