UPDATE #1: (Lawrenceville, Ga., April 16, 2023) The victim has been identified as Angel Mendoza (age 39, Lawrenceville). 

During the investigation, detectives identified two suspects in this case.  Earlier today, warrants were obtained for Esteven Avile-Vega (age 26, Lawrenceville) and his girlfriend Sulma Mejia-Orellana (age 26, Lawrenceville).  Both suspects were arrested at a home in Lawrenceville.

Esteven Avile-Vega has been charged with Felony Murder, Aggravated Assault, and Possession of a Firearm during the Commission of Certain Crimes.  Sulma Mejia-Orellana has been charged with Aggravated Assault. They are currently in custody at the Gwinnett County Jail.

 ORIGINAL: (Norcross, Ga., April 16, 2023) – On April 16^th, 2023, at approximately 1:10 A.M. Gwinnett County Police Officers assigned to the West Precinct were dispatched to the report of a person shot on Pepperwood Trail, Norcross.  When officers arrived on scene, they located a deceased male victim from an apparent gunshot wound. The victim’s name is being withheld until the Next of Kin has been notified.

The GCPD Homicide and Crime Scene Investigations Units have conducted their on-scene investigation and are following leads.  This continues to be an active investigation. The motive for this incident is unclear at this time. However, more information will be released as the investigation continues.

If anyone has any information to share in this case, please contact GCPD detectives at 770-513-5300.  To remain anonymous, tipsters should contact Crime Stoppers at 404-577-TIPS (8477) or visit www.stopcrimeATL.com.  Crime Stoppers tipsters can receive a cash reward for information leading to an arrest and indictment in this case. 

Case Number:  GP230029197