Man found dead in his car, victim of multiple gunshots

Madera Police believe a 26-year-old Madera man was shot and killed in his vehicle in the 400 block of Wallace Avenue near Sunrise Avenue Friday, July 6, about 11 p.m., according to Public Information Officer Sgt. Mark Trukki.

Daniel Pelayo’s body was first seen with several gunshot wounds by a passerby about 8:15 Saturday morning, still in the driver’s seat of his vehicle.

The delay in the discovery was due to confusion over the explosions and reports of fireworks in that area the previous evening, Trukki said, and persons hearing the gunfire Friday night apparently thought they were hearing fireworks.

Police are looking for the person or persons involved, and the motive is being investigated.

Trukki said the motive for the shooting is unknown and does not appear to be gang related at this time. Surveillance video is still being reviewed and the investigation is ongoing, so no additional information can be released at this time, he said. The case is being investigated by Madera Police Detective Matt Sauceda.

If anyone has any information regarding this case they are asked to call Crime Stoppers at 498-STOP or visit their website at http://valleycrimestoppers.org/ to submit an anonymous tip. Crime Stoppers pays up to a $3,000 cash reward for information leading to an arrest and a conviction in a crime.