California Serial Killer Who Fatally Shot 4, Including 3 Homeless People, In Custody, Authorities Say

By BERT HOOVER First Posted: Dec 03, 2023 11:24 PM EST

Authorities in Los Angeles have successfully apprehended the suspect linked to a string of four California fatal shootings that transpired over the course of this week, including the unprovoked killings of three homeless men, according to ABC News.

The alleged California serial killer, identified as Jerrid Joseph Powell, 33, was taken into custody in connection with the murders of three unhoused individuals who were tragically killed while sleeping on the streets.

Powell was initially arrested in relation to another homicide that occurred earlier in the week, involving a follow-home robbery in Los Angeles County.

The four-day spree of serial killings spanned from Sunday to Wednesday, with the suspect being apprehended on Thursday in connection with the robbery-homicide.

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) announced the search for a potential serial killer on Friday, and within 24 hours, Powell was arrested.

"Twenty-four hours ago, we announced there was a killer on the loose. Now he is in custody," said Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass during a press briefing on Saturday, noting the swift resolution.

The suspect's vehicle, present at all three homicides of unhoused victims, and a handgun recovered from the vehicle were identified as crucial pieces of evidence.

Los Angeles Police Chief Michel Moore confirmed that the handgun was "positively identified" as the murder weapon used in the California fatal shootings.

Both the vehicle and the firearm were also linked to the home robbery shooting.

California Fatal Shootings

The series of fatal shootings began on November 26, with the first incident occurring near 110th Street and Vermont Avenue in Westmont, per the Los Angeles Daily News.

The victim, identified as 37-year-old Jose Bolanos, was sleeping on a couch behind a building when he was approached and fatally shot by the suspect.

The second shooting occurred on November 27 in Downtown LA's Skid Row. Mark Diggs, 62, was fatally shot while charging his phone near an electrical outlet after leaning against a wall and falling asleep.

The third victim, a 52-year-old man whose name has not been disclosed, was fatally shot while sleeping on a sidewalk in East L.A.

The fourth case involved the murder of Nicholas Simbolon, 42, who was found with a gunshot wound inside his Tesla in the garage of his San Dimas home.

Simbolon was followed from an electric vehicle charging station in West Covina, leading to his tragic death.

Technology Plays Vital Role in California Serial Killer's Arrest

The arrest of Joseph Powell, the suspected California serial killer, was facilitated by the utilization of technology, according to Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna.

Following Simbolon's murder, law enforcement identified the suspect's vehicle through video evidence and eyewitness reports, allowing them to input the license plate into an automatic license plate reader.

This technology played a critical role in locating Powell's car, aiding in his subsequent arrest, FOX 11 noted.

Los Angeles Police Chief Michel Moore underscored the importance of technology in ensuring community safety.

"The safety net of what technology can provide us today for safer communities is critical," Moore said, expressing confidence that without access to these tools, the suspect might have continued his violent spree.

Officials revealed that Powell has a lengthy criminal history, raising concerns about the possibility of additional victims.

Authorities are urging anyone with information about other potential victims to come forward.

As investigations continue, law enforcement is working to establish a motive for the series of California fatal shootings.