BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — Kern Secret Witness is offering a reward of up to $20,000 for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of the person or persons responsible for the murder of 16-year-old William Aviles.
On Halloween, at around 3:35 a.m., officers were called to a report of gunfire at a large party on South Half Moon Drive. When officers arrived, they found a 16-year-old boy suffering from severe injuries. He was taken to a hospital where he later died.
The Kern County Coroner’s Office has identified the teen killed as 16-year-old William Francisco Aviles of Bakersfield.
Police said investigators have determined that numerous bystanders witnessed or recorded the incident, and some videos have been shared on social media.
Despite previous requests for public assistance, investigators have received limited actionable information and believe individuals who attended the party may possess critical information regarding the shooting and the identity of those responsible.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to call the Bakersfield Police Department or Kern Secret Witness at (661) 322-4040.