On Dec. 20, 2012, just after 11:30 a.m., Phoenix Police responded to the neighborhood of 2600 North 43rd Avenue regarding a shooting. When officers arrived they located one victim who was transported to an area hospital where he later died of his injuries. This victim was identified as David Lopez Banuelos.

As officers were arriving on scene, they became aware a second victim was taken to another area hospital with a gunshot wound. This second victim was dropped off by Suspect 1, Julio Gonzalez Valenzuela, in a 2003 Dodge truck bearing an Arizona plate of 51FB40. Suspect Julio Valenzuela fled from the hospital and his current whereabouts are unknown.

Detectives have determined the altercation involved a purchase of drugs.  During the drug transaction, an altercation ensued which resulted in the death of the victim. The second suspect, Ramiro Ortega, is believed to have also sustained a gunshot wound however his whereabouts are also currently unknown. He is known to drive a 2004 Nissan 350Z with pink wheels. The license plate to this vehicle is OFBP33.

Both suspects listed above are wanted in connection with the murder of this victim under the felony murder rule.

Victim: David Lopez Banuelos – Hispanic male – 31 years old

Suspect 2: Ramiro Ortega – Hispanic male – 27 years old

Julio Gonzalez Valenzuela

Suspect 1: Julio Gonzalez Valenzuela – Hispanic male – 37 years old

Suspect Vehicle: 2003 black Dodge truck – Arizona plate / 51FB40 (two “Air Jordan” stickers on the back window)

Ramiro Ortega

Suspect Vehicle: 2004 Nissan 350Z – with pink wheels – Arizona plate / OFBP33

Anyone with information is strongly encouraged to contact the Phoenix Police Department at 602-262-6141.  Those who wish to remain anonymous are welcome to call Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS or 480-TESTIGO for Spanish.