OCSO investigate altercation death

Published 8:18 am Monday, March 28, 2016

PRESS RELEASE — On Sunday, March 27, 2016 at 12:18 a.m., the Orange County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call in reference to a disturbance that occurred at a residence in the 9100 block of Stonewood Drive. The caller stated that two male subject were involved in a physical altercation.

As Deputies arrived on scene, they observed a male subject, identified as 36 year old Anthony Flores, lying on the floor of the garage.   Another man, identified as 58 year old Juan Juarez Jr. was standing in the garage and told the Deputies that he was involved in a physical altercation with Flores. During the altercation, Flores became unresponsive at which time 911 was called.

After speaking with several witnesses it was found that a disturbance had occurred between Flores and Juarez. As the disturbance escalated Flores was struck with a beer bottle but continued to fight with Juarez. During the altercation, Flores became unresponsive, but was still breathing. Flores was transported by Acadian Ambulance Service to Baptist Hospital Orange where he was later pronounced deceased.

Detectives transported Juarez and other witness to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and obtained statements. At the time, a cause of death has not been determined and is pending the results of an autopsy. No arrests have been made and no further information will be available until an autopsy is completed. It is likely the autopsy will not be conducted until Monday March 28, 2016.

Sheriff Merritt stated a thorough investigation will continue and arrests may follow pending the outcome of the investigation.

If you have any further information regarding this crime or any other felony crime, contact Crime Stoppers 833-TIPS. It could earn you up to a $1000 and callers are not asked their names.