In a shocking and tragic incident, UPS driver Expedito De Leon was ambushed and killed in Southern California by his childhood friend and coworker, Rhean Jalipa Fontanoza. Fontanoza allegedly fired 14 shots at De Leon, hitting him 10 times in a matter of seconds while he was seat belted in his delivery truck. Prosecutors stated that Fontanoza had gone to great lengths to track down De Leon’s delivery route, even stopping another UPS driver earlier in the day to inquire about it. He was later seen accessing a computer that showed driver routes and taking a picture with his phone before carrying out the attack.
The motive behind the attack is still unknown as investigators continue their work. Fontanoza, who was on disability leave at the time of the killing, was found later that afternoon in his vehicle by authorities. He refused to exit the vehicle until tear gas and a police K-9 were deployed. Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer expressed shock at the level of depravity involved in planning and executing the murder of a longtime friend. He emphasized the tragedy of the situation, stating that no life should end in such a manner.
Fontanoza faces charges of a special circumstances allegation of shooting from a vehicle and murder by lying in wait. He is being held in Orange County Jail with no bail and is eligible for the death penalty. UPS expressed shock and sadness at the news, noting that the incident does not represent the company’s culture or the camaraderie among its employees. The company stated that their focus is on supporting their employees and their families during this extremely difficult time. They deferred all additional questions to the investigating authorities as the investigation continues.
The attack on De Leon took place in broad daylight as he was on his delivery route, unsuspecting of the danger that awaited him. Fontanoza reportedly drove up next to De Leon’s delivery truck in a new vehicle that De Leon wouldn’t recognize. After De Leon left his truck to make a delivery and returned to buckle his seatbelt, Fontanoza allegedly carried out the attack. The swift and brutal nature of the shooting shocked both investigators and the community, leaving them searching for answers.
The shocking attack has left the community reeling as they struggle to understand how a childhood friend and coworker could carry out such a horrific act of violence. Fontanoza’s actions have been described as incomprehensible and tragic, with prosecutors emphasizing that no life should have to end in such a manner. As the investigation into the motive of the attack continues, authorities are left grappling with the senseless loss of life and the impact it has had on De Leon’s loved ones and the wider community. UPS has vowed to support their employees during this difficult time and has expressed deep sadness at the loss of one of their own in such a senseless act of violence.
