Second Suspect Arrested in Blake Rutledge’s May 2025 Murder in Hesperia
HESPERIA, Calif. (VVNG.com) — A second suspect has been arrested in connection to the May 2025 murder of 27-year-old Blake Rutledge, a resident of Hesperia.
According to a written statement from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, 35-year-old Jovany Bahena of Apple Valley was arrested on Friday, August 29, 2025, by investigators from the Specialized Enforcement Division.
Bahena was taken into custody at a residence in Apple Valley and booked for murder at the High Desert Detention Center, where he remains in custody.
Bahena is the second suspect to be arrested in the case. On May 30, 2025, authorities arrested 37-year-old Ermes Bustamante of Victorville in connection with Rutledge’s death. Bustamante was taken into custody during the early morning hours and booked for PC 187 – Murder with bail set at $1,000,000.
The investigation began on May 23, 2025, at approximately 6:14 a.m., when deputies from the Hesperia Sheriff’s Station responded to the 16000 block of Sequoia Street for a report of shots fired. Upon entering the residence, deputies discovered Rutledge suffering from gunshot wounds. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Detectives determined several individuals had fled the area immediately following the shooting. A search was conducted, but no suspects were located at that time.
The Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division – Homicide Detail assumed the investigation, which remains ongoing.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the Homicide Detail at 909-890-4904. Callers wishing to remain anonymous can contact We-Tip at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or visit wetip.com
Related Articles:
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UPDATE: Suspect Arrested in Hesperia Shooting That Left Blake Rutledge, 27, Dead
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