Linda Vista, California — A quiet community was left heartbroken early Monday morning after a deadly shooting near the Linda Vista Recreation Center claimed the life of 40-year-old Enrique Nunez. What began as a calm night in the San Diego neighborhood ended in tragedy, as residents awoke to the sound of gunfire echoing through their streets.
Police officers were dispatched to the 7000 block of Levant Street around 12:45 a.m., responding to multiple reports of shots fired near the recreation center, a popular gathering place for families and local youth. Upon arrival, officers found Nunez lying on the ground, suffering from at least one gunshot wound. His injuries were severe, and emergency medics immediately began life-saving efforts at the scene.
Despite their quick response, Nunez’s condition deteriorated rapidly. Paramedics transported him to a nearby hospital, where doctors worked tirelessly to revive him. Tragically, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The news devastated both his loved ones and community members who frequently saw him around the neighborhood.
Detectives quickly established a perimeter and launched a homicide investigation. Evidence technicians spent hours combing the area for clues, collecting spent shell casings and reviewing surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses. Officers believe the suspect, described as a heavy-set Hispanic man, fled the scene immediately after the shooting. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the suspect escaped on foot or in a vehicle.
Preliminary reports suggest the shooting may have followed an argument, though police have not verified a clear motive. Investigators are working to piece together the events that led up to the deadly encounter. The San Diego Police Department is urging anyone who may have witnessed the altercation or has security footage from the area to come forward and assist in identifying the shooter.
The Linda Vista Recreation Center, where the incident occurred, is usually a safe space filled with laughter and family activity. In recent years, the park has been a hub for children’s programs, sports leagues, and weekend gatherings. Residents say they are stunned and heartbroken that such violence erupted in a place meant for community connection.
One local resident described hearing several loud pops before sirens filled the night. “It was terrifying,” she said. “This is a park where kids play every day. To think something like this could happen here—it’s unthinkable.” Others in the neighborhood have since placed candles and flowers near the recreation center to honor Nunez’s memory.
Authorities have promised a thorough investigation and are working closely with community leaders to ensure residents feel safe. Police patrols have increased in the area as detectives continue pursuing leads in what they describe as a “targeted, isolated incident.” Still, the broader sense of fear and sorrow lingers among families who frequent the park.
As the investigation continues, Enrique Nunez’s family is left grappling with unimaginable grief. Friends describe him as a kind, hardworking man who loved his community and enjoyed helping others. Loved ones have shared heartfelt messages online, calling for justice and peace.
Anyone with information related to the shooting is urged to contact the San Diego Police Department’s Homicide Unit or Crime Stoppers anonymously. Detectives believe that with community cooperation, they can bring closure to Nunez’s family and restore peace to the Linda Vista neighborhood.
