California: Murder Suspect Arrested at Sky River Casino

An Oakland, California man, suspected of murdering his wife approximately two years ago was recently detained at an Elk Grove casino.

Sky River Casino Patron Arrested

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) confirmed the arrest of a 49-year-old Oakland resident identified with the initials N.M., recognized as a prime suspect in a murder case from 2023. The arrest dates back to January 2, 2025, when CHP’s Golden Gate Division Special Investigations Unit (SIU), along with officers from South Sacramento, Stockton Area, as well as the Elk Grove Police Department were able to locate the suspect at Sky River Casino.

In collaboration with casino security, law enforcement was able to detain the 49-year-old murder suspect. CHP confirmed that the Oakland man’s arrest was completed without incident. Following the arrest, N.M. was transported to Alameda County. Subsequently, the suspect was booked into Santa Rita Jail. It is unclear whether a bail is set for him.

“At approximately 11:50 pm on January 2, SIU detectives, along with officers from the CHP’s South Sacramento and Stockton Area offices and the Elk Grove Police Department, located N.M. at Sky River Casino in Elk Grove. With assistance from casino security, authorities identified N.M.’s location inside the casino and arrested him without incident,“

reads a statement from the California Highway Patrol

The arrest comes after an investigation by the SIU, which helped identify him as a prime suspect in his wife’s murder. Following a two-year investigation, the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office and CHP detectives filed charges against the suspect. On January 2, 2025, the Alameda Superior Court issued formal charges against the 49-year-old suspect. In addition, a warrant for his arrest was officially released, which ultimately led to his detention later on the same day.

The Suspect’s Wife Was Found Shot

The murder of L.M., the 49-year-old suspect’s wife dates back to February 26, 2023. At the time, law enforcement responded to a call about an assault in progress. Officers with the CHP Oakland Area were notified at approximately 1:30 am regarding the incident which took place at the Edwards Avenue offramp from eastbound Interstate 580 in Oakland, as explained by law enforcement.

Upon arrival, the officers found the victim lying on the side of the road. The woman suffered a gunshot wound and after the arrival of paramedics was pronounced dead.

Depending on the charges, if sentenced, the suspect may face tough punishment. For example, in California, first-degree murder is subject to 25 years to life imprisonment. Still, it is yet to be seen whether or not the 49-year-old is facing first-degree murder or lesser charges. As with any criminal case, prosecutors may also present extenuating or aggravating circumstances.