Authorities Release Description of Isla Vista Murder Suspect

Santa Barbara Sheriff’s detectives have released a physical description of the person they believe responsible for 26-year-old Vincent Velasquez’s violent death Sunday morning in Isla Vista.

The suspect is described as a Hispanic male in his 20s, 5’7” to 5’9” tall, 150-185 pounds, with short hair, and some facial hair. At the time of the murder he was reportedly wearing a long sleeve button up checkered shirt and dark-colored pants. Detectives are also looking for a woman who accompanied the suspect. She’s described as a heavyset Hispanic female with dark-colored hair.

According to Sheriff’s Department spokesperson Drew Sugars, Velasquez and the suspect got into a fight in the 6600 block of Abrego Road at around 12:40 in the morning. “The incident began with a verbal exchange between the decedent and another man that quickly escalated into a physical altercation and eventual stabbing,” said Sugars.

Anyone with information on the suspect or homocide is asked to call the Criminal Investigations Division at (805) 681-4150, or the Sheriff’s Anonymous Tip Line at (805) 681-4171. They can also use the Anonymous Tips and Information page on the Sheriff’s Web site.