Police Arrest 15-Year-Old Suspect in April Murder Near Grand Prix

LONG BEACH, CA – On May 4, 2025, Long Beach Police Department Homicide Detectives arrested a 15-year-old suspect in connection with the April 12, 2025, murder of 21-year-old Brandon Villarreal in the 0 block of Cedar Walk, near the Long Beach Grand Prix during the event’s festivities.

Following an extensive investigation, detectives identified the suspect, a Long Beach resident, and learned he had traveled to Las Vegas, Nevada. Upon receiving information that the suspect was returning to California on May 4, detectives obtained an arrest warrant and apprehended him during a pedestrian stop in Barstow, California. The suspect was processed at Long Beach City Jail and transported to Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall, where he was booked for murder with no bail set.

The motive for the killing remains under investigation, and the case has been presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for review.

The Long Beach Police Department expressed gratitude to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and the FBI Criminal Apprehension Team for their assistance in the case.

Authorities are seeking additional information from the public. Anyone with details related to the incident is urged to contact Homicide Detectives Eric Thai or Chasen Contreras at (562) 570-7244.

This is an ongoing investigation, and further updates will be provided as available.