The deadly shooting of a longtime Riverside resident whose life was allegedly taken by a 23-year-old gunman without provocation was “a senseless act of violence” for which authorities intend to seek justice, the city’s police chief said Thursday.
David Abarca, 41, was gunned down Saturday night in the area of Hole and Mitchell avenues, on the west end of city, according to the Riverside Police Department.
Andre Devin Thomas, 23, of Riverside was arrested within minutes of the alleged attack. Thomas is charged with murder and sentence-enhancing gun and great bodily injury allegations. He pleaded not guilty during an arraignment Wednesday before Riverside County Superior Court Judge Gail O’Rane, who scheduled a felony settlement conference for May 27 at the Riverside Hall of Justice.
Thomas is being held on $1 million bail at the Robert Presley Jail.
“This was a senseless act of violence that took the life of a hardworking father, and our hearts go out to Mr. Abarca’s family and loved ones,” police Chief Larry Gonzalez said. “I commend our officers for their swift response in capturing the suspect, and our detectives and forensic specialists for their diligent work. We remain committed to seeking justice for Mr. Abarca.”
Agency spokesman Officer Ryan Railsback said that shortly after 10 p.m. Saturday, the victim left his workplace of almost 25 years — Rodrigo’s Mexican Grill — after working late and missing his customary ride home. He decided to walk, and when he approached the intersection of Hole and Mitchell, Thomas confronted him, Railsback alleged.
He said the defendant pulled a handgun and “suddenly shot (Abarca) without provocation.”
Witnesses called 911, and patrol officers converged on the location moments later. They located Thomas only a short distance away and arrested him without incident. A witness was able to point detectives to the place where he’d seen the defendant allegedly toss the firearm, after which it was seized, according to Railsback.
Abarca leaves behind a 10-year-old son.
Court records indicate Thomas has a juvenile record, but no details were available. He has no documented prior felony convictions in adult court.