East SBV Times

On Monday, April 15, 2024, deputies from the Hesperia Sheriff’s Station responded to the report of a trailer fire in the 7800 block of C Street, in Hesperia. The San Bernardino County Fire Department extinguished the fire and discovered a deceased male, identified as Justin Wilkinson, inside the trailer.

According to the report, "through investigation, detectives learned Wilkinson was physically assaulted." The Sheriff’s Arson/Bomb Detail found injuries on Wilkinson not consistent with a fire. The Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division – Homicide Detail also responded and assumed the investigation.

The suspect in the case was identified as Angel Cardenas, 23-years-old, a resident of Victorville. Angel Cardenas was contacted as a witness, later identified as the suspect, and subsequently arrested. He is currently in custody at the High Desert Detention Center without bail.

In a statement, the Sheriff-Coroner Department urged anyone with information regarding the incident to contact the Homicide Detail at 909-890-4904. Callers wishing to remain anonymous were advised to contact We-Tip at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or visit www.wetip.com.

The tragic incident has left the community in shock as the investigation continues to unfold.