Reporting Deputy: Sergeant Ed Baeza
File # PC230650067
Update:
Investigators have identified and arrested three suspects in connection with the homicide investigation of Robert Bettencourt, that occurred on 03/06/23, in Winchester. Three suspects were taken into custody without incident at or near their residences and are identified as Kevin R. Hirsch, 46-year-old, resident of Menifee, Clifford Franken, 54-year-old resident of Hemet, and Matthew Fromer, 50-year-old resident of Menifee. A fourth suspect identified as Joseph Michael Salvati, 34-year-old resident of Moreno Valley, remains at large. Salvati has an arrest warrant and is considered “armed and dangerous”. If anyone encounters Salvati, do not approach and call 9-1-1 for assistance.
If anyone has information regarding this investigation, they are encouraged to call Investigator B. Cline of the Central Homicide Unit at 951-955-2777 or Investigator C. Angelo at of the Riverside Sheriff’s Department at 310-595-5265.
Update:
The victim in this homicide has been identified as Robert Bettencourt, 78-year-old resident of Winchester. If anyone has information regarding this investigation, they are encouraged to call Investigator B. Cline of the Central Homicide Unit at 951-955-2777 or Investigator R. Barbie of the Riverside Sheriff’s Perris Station at 951-210-1000.
Citizens may also submit a tip using the Sheriff’s Homicide Tipline online form.
Details:
On March 6, 2023, at 5:20 p.m., deputies assigned to the Riverside Sheriff’s Perris Station responded to the 28000 block of Whitaker Ln., in Winchester, to check the welfare on a male subject. When deputies arrived, they found signs of forced entry. Deputies entered the residence and located the deceased body of a 78-year-old, male subject with signs of trauma. No other persons were located at the residence or on the property. A crime scene was secured and the Central Homicide Unit responded to assume the investigation. The victim’s identify is being withheld pending next of kin notification.
If anyone has information regarding this investigation, they are encouraged to call Investigator B. Cline of the Central Homicide Unit at 951-955-2777 or Investigator R. Barbie of the Riverside Sheriff’s Perris Station at 951-210-1000.
Citizens may also submit a tip using the Sheriff’s Homicide Tipline online form.
For media inquiries regarding this incident please contact the Media Information Bureau.
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