Pastor Rudy Trujillo, a beloved faith leader in the San Fernando Valley, has consoled numerous distraught parents over decades after the heartbreaking deaths of their children from drug use or gang violence. He likely never imagined that his own life would be tragically upended by a fatal shooting.
The evening of May 30, 43-year-old Joshua Trujillo – the pastor’s only child – was shot and killed when an argument escalated into violence in the parking lot outside a quinceañera at the George A. Carvalho Sports Complex in Santa Clarita. The altercation involved Joshua Trujillo and his ex-wife’s boyfriend, identified via her Instagram page as Michael R. Lopez.
Deputies who arrived on scene discovered both men with gunshot wounds; they were transported to a local hospital, where Joshua Trujillo was later pronounced dead. Lopez was shot six times and was hospitalized in critical condition, according to a GoFundMe page created for Lopez.
According to a statement from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) – which didn’t name the individuals involved – “the deceased party [Joshua Trujillo] and the injured party [Lopez] were involved in an argument. During the argument, the deceased individual [Joshua Trujillo] shot the injured party [Lopez]. An uninvolved person shot and killed the deceased.”
Deputies initially detained a person of interest, but LASD Lt. Chris Oakley told the San Fernando Valley Sun/el Sol that the detained person was released. He said the case is still under investigation and will be filed with the LA County District Attorney within the next two weeks.
“They will make the determination if any charges are filed on anyone involved,” said Oakley, noting they can’t confirm the relationships between the parties involved or provide other details.
The LA County Medical Examiner determined Joshua Trujillo’s manner of death as homicide.
Numerous friends and community members have shared heartfelt messages of support for Rudy Trujillo and his family via numerous posts across social media.
“I went to school with Rudy,” wrote Sharon Fuentes. “Heartbreaking to hear this senseless violence has taken his son. Sending love and strength to the family during this incredibly difficult time.”
“You’re in our thoughts and prayers,” posted Cisneros Jerry Gerardo. “Joshua’s memory will live on through the impact his family has made in their community.”
“Sal the drummer” Rodriguez of War, a childhood friend of Rudy Trujillo, told the San Fernando Valley Sun/el Sol that a fundraising event is being planned to help support the Trujillo family, tentatively set for late July, though the date and event details are still being finalized.
“My heart goes out to Pastor Rudy, [his wife] Annette Trujillo and [their] family for this tragic loss,” said Rodriguez. “I’ve known Pastor Rudy since the fourth grade, going back to Telfair Elementary in Pacoima, so we have history. I also attended the Faith Center. Please pray for Pastor Rudy, Annette and … everyone who’s been affected by this great tragedy.”
Rudy and Annette Trujillo shared a family statement last week via Facebook regarding their son’s unexpected death, thanking community members for their “prayers, love [and] support.”
“Josh was the center of our world, a cherished son who brought immeasurable love, joy and pride to our family,” they wrote. “Josh was a hardworking, caring and dedicated father who always put his [four] children first. Our hearts are broken beyond words. … Your kindness has provided comfort in our darkest hours and reminds us that we do not walk this journey alone.”
Rudy Trujillo cautioned that “there may be individuals who attempt to profit from our family’s tragedy,” and noted that all official fundraisers, memorial events and family updates approved by the Trujillo family will be posted via their Facebook and Instagram pages.
As of press time, no funeral services had been announced for Joshua Trujillo.
For Rudy and Annette Trujillo’s GoFundMe page, go to: gofund.me/8d59d6115.