Lake Los Angeles, CA – A 32-year-old man is facing three murder charges and the possibility of life in prison after authorities say he opened fire on two vehicles in a remote part of northeast Los Angeles County, killing three people in a broad daylight attack.
Triple Homicide Shocks Quiet Desert Community
Axel Trevino, of Lake Los Angeles, was formally charged on Friday, August 23 with three counts of murder, with special circumstance allegations for multiple killings and personally discharging a firearm. If convicted, he could receive life without parole, according to Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman.
“This was a ruthless and violent attack that claimed three lives in broad daylight,” Hochman stated. “All members of our community…should feel protected from this kind of deadly violence.”
Details of the Deadly Shooting
The violent ambush took place just before 5 p.m. on August 17, near East Avenue Q and 215th Street East, in a remote desert stretch of Lake Los Angeles — roughly 20 miles east of Palmdale.
According to investigators:
- Trevino pulled alongside an SUV carrying Juan Arteaga-Diaz and Nazario Ramirez, opened fire, and shot both men multiple times.
- Moments later, he allegedly drove alongside Beverly Cassese’s vehicle and fired again, fatally striking her as she drove.
- Cassese was found dead at the scene, while Arteaga-Diaz and Ramirez were located a short distance away inside their SUV, both also deceased from gunshot wounds.
Suspect Apprehended Two Days Later
Trevino fled the scene before deputies from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department could arrive. On August 19, law enforcement released his photo and images of a 2021 Nissan Altima, believed to be linked to the crime. As per KTLA, Trevino was taken into custody without incident.
Authorities have not publicly disclosed a motive and have withheld certain investigative details to protect the integrity of the case. It remains unclear if Trevino had any known relationship with the victims.
Victims Identified
The three victims of this brutal shooting have been identified as:
- Juan Arteaga-Diaz
- Nazario Ramirez
- Beverly Cassese, believed to be in her 40s
Legal Proceedings Underway
Trevino was arraigned at the Antelope Valley Courthouse and is currently being held without bail. The case is being prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Keri Knittel from the Antelope Valley Branch of the DA’s Office.
If convicted on all charges and special circumstances, Trevino would face a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment, possibly without parole.
Community Reactions and Next Steps
The quiet desert communities of Antelope Valley and Lake Los Angeles have been left shaken by the brazen daylight killings.
Authorities urge anyone with additional information to come forward as they continue to piece together the events that led to this deadly shooting spree.
What are your thoughts on this tragic case? Share them in the comment section below.
