September 28, 2016

SCPD Identified Suspect & Arrest Warrant Issued in 9/26/16 Homicide Investigation

Santa Cruz Police Detectives have identified the suspect in the 9/26/16 homicide as Kasey Gaskell, 43 years old from Santa Cruz. An $800,000 dollar warrant has been issued for murder for Mr. Gaskell’s arrest.
Kasey Gaskell, 43 years old from Santa Cruz
Suspect wanted in 9/26/16 Homicide 

On Monday September 26, 2016 at 4:59 a.m., Santa Cruz Police Officers responded to report of a deceased female in an apartment in the 800 block of Front Street. Based on the suspicious nature of the death, SCPD Detectives responded to investigate and determined the death to be a homicide.

The victim, Shannon Magner, 66 years old from Aptos, suffered a stab wound to the back of her neck. Over the past three days, SCPD Detectives have been processing evidence and working with the County Forensic Pathologist and Department of Justice to investigate the potential crime scene.

Shannon Magner is the suspect’s mother. She was discovered in the apartment rented by Kasey Gaskell. At one time, the victim lived with her son at the residence before relocating to Aptos. The victim’s son Kasey Gaskell continued to reside in the apartment. He has not been seen for several days and his whereabouts is unknown.

At this time, the investigation is on-going. It is believed that Mr. Gaskell has fled the area. SCPD Detectives are actively pursuing his whereabouts. The motive is still undetermined.

Anyone with information about Kasey Gaskell’s location is encouraged to call 9-1-1.