Crime
Carlos Fuentes killed after shooting at basketball court in Avon Park
The basketball court, a well-frequented area, had numerous witnesses present during the shooting.
The Highlands County Sheriff’s Office is conducting an investigation into a fatal shooting that occurred Monday night at a basketball court on Fred Conner Street in Avon Park.
Multiple 911 calls were received at approximately 6:18 p.m., reporting gunfire in the area.
When deputies arrived at the scene, they discovered an adult male, identified as Carlos Fuentes, lying on the ground with gunshot wounds.
Fuentes was transported to a hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
The basketball court, a well-frequented area, had numerous witnesses present during the shooting.
Detectives are actively working to identify those witnesses and are pursuing several leads generated in the early stages of the investigation.
The Highlands County Sheriff’s Office urges anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Witnesses or individuals with knowledge of the shooting can contact the sheriff’s office at 863-402-7200 (option 1).
For those wishing to remain anonymous, tips can be submitted through the following methods:
- The HCSO smartphone app.
- Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-888-400-TIPS (8477).
- Online at www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com under the “Submit A Tip” tab.
- By downloading and using the free “P3tips“ app on your smartphone.
Anonymous tips provided to Crime Stoppers could be eligible for a cash reward. Investigators continue to work diligently to bring closure to this tragic event.
Houston, TX – March 13, 2025 – A Houston man has been charged with murder following the death of his wife inside their home, while the victim’s family is seeking help in locating her missing dogs.
The Houston Police Department (HPD) responded to a residence on Emma Forest Street early March 12, 2025, after receiving reports of a disturbance.
Upon arrival, officers encountered 34-year-old Chance Zane Chavez, who was reportedly covered in blood.
Officers secured Chavez and proceeded to search the home, where they discovered the lifeless body of his wife, 32-year-old Kristen Chavez, inside a bedroom.
She had suffered blunt force trauma and was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Following an initial investigation, HPD detectives arrested Chance Zane Chavez and formally charged him with murder.
Authorities have not yet disclosed a possible motive, and the case remains under investigation.
In addition to seeking justice for Kristen, her family is searching for her missing dogs, which were not found at the residence.
Anyone with information regarding their whereabouts is urged to contact law enforcement.
The Houston Police Department urges anyone with additional details related to the case to come forward.