Stockton’s possible serial killer concerns keep the neighborhood on edge

STOCKTON, Calif. – Concern is growing town of Stockton after a series of murders can possibly be linked to one person.

The Stockton Police Department has described a disturbing pattern of murders occurring within a mile radius of downtown Stockton. All of the victims were male and were killed while walking alone in dimly lit areas without cameras.

Police say the pattern resembles a serial killer, causing concern across the city.

Despite the news, 80-year-old Eleanor, from Stockton, still regularly walks around the neighborhood. She lives near where the first Kermit Lane incident happened in July.

“I’ve been doing this for years, so I’m familiar with the neighborhood and the people,” said Eleanor, who asked ABC10 not to use her last name. “There’s more attention to it, and I have to be more careful.”

Between July and September of this year, Stockton police have identified five murders that may be linked to the same suspect.

All of the victims are male, between the ages of 21 and 54, and all but one are Hispanic. Police say some were in cars, walking or sleeping, but all were alone.

The department has released a single photo of a tall, thin man of interest identified near two crime scenes.

“We’re all taking it hard because of how much he meant to us in our lives,” said Pia Lopez, the sister of one of the victims.

Pia Lopez is the sister of Lorenzo Lopez, who was killed before sunrise on Tuesday. It was the latest attack that Stockton police believe is connected.

“By definition, we can definitely call this a serial killing, but at this point we don’t know if it’s one person, two or three people,” said Police Chief Stanley McFadden.

Sandra, a Kermit Lane resident, said violence has already happened in their neighborhood. Her house was even marked with a single stray bullet in her garage window.

“Everything is locked up like a drum, you know? We have an alarm, we have a lot of precautions that we take,” Sandra said.

However, she says her neighbors look out for each other and her family is taking precautions. She also says she feels safe in faith and prayer.

“I’m sure we’re safe enough in our homes,” Sandra said.

Police are offering $85,000 for information leading to an arrest. Meanwhile, authorities say investigators are working around the clock on the case.

Stockton Police: Allegations of serial killer on social media so far unsubstantiated