DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA – The night started like any other for Rudy Rios until he received a distressing phone call from his 18-year-old son, Matthew. It was December 17, 2023, and Matthew had just finished work at the Dollar General near their home when he was shot at Mission Springs Park in Desert Hot Springs. Rudy Rios remained on the line with his son, desperate to understand what had happened as he tried to rush to the park to help him.
The situation quickly turned into a nightmare as Rudy Rios struggled to make sense of the unthinkable. His son, shot multiple times, was clinging to life, being assisted by a stranger who identified himself as Gabriel. Despite efforts to save him, Matthew was rushed to the hospital and underwent surgery, but tragically, he could not be saved.
As the investigation into the shooting unfolded, two suspects were arrested in Las Vegas about a month later. 18-year-old Emanuel Orlando Castaneda Martinez was charged with murder and robbery, while 19-year-old Carlos Alberto Hernandez was charged as an accessory for aiding Martinez in his escape. Both men pled not guilty and the investigation continued, indicating the possibility of more arrests in the future.
The news of Matthew Rios’ untimely death devastated his coworkers, friends, and the local music community. Those close to him described him as a very talented and humble young man, deeply passionate about his budding music career. His sudden and tragic loss sent shockwaves through the tight-knit community of young musicians and performers in the Coachella Valley.
Rudy Rios, still grieving the loss of his son, expressed his hope for justice while acknowledging that nothing can fill the void left by Matthew’s death. He also expressed gratitude towards the detectives working on the case and publicly thanked the stranger, Gabriel, who had helped his son in his final moments.
As the investigation continues and the community mourns the loss of a promising young talent, the impact of Matthew Rios’ tragic and senseless death serves as a sobering reminder of the lasting effects of violence on individuals and communities.