‘Murder Squad’ Gang Member Killed Innocent Bystanders ‘for Sport,’ Went on Human ‘Hunts’

Andrew Alvarado, 34, a member of the notorious “Murder Squad” in California, has pleaded guilty to his involvement in a series of brutal killings. The group, which operated in Salinas, was responsible for at least 11 murders between 2015 and 2018, with Alvarado directly participating in three of them. Alvarado’s guilty plea was entered on Tuesday in federal court, where he faces life in prison, a $250,000 fine for racketeering charges, and an additional 10 years for conspiracy to commit murder. The “Murder Squad,” which operated under the guise of gang warfare, engaged in violent, military-style tactics, seeking out rival gang members to target in the city of Salinas. However, many of their victims were innocent bystanders who were caught in the crossfire. Prosecutors have emphasized that while the group intended to target rival “Sureños” (Southern California gang members), many of their victims were not affiliated with any gang, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the violence.

Criminal Operations and Tactics

The “Murder Squad,” allegedly linked to the Norteños street gang, used sophisticated methods during their “hunts.” The group operated in convoys, with separate vehicles for shooters and spotters. Their primary targets were Hispanic males, often those with shaved heads or wearing blue—symbols typically associated with rival gang members. Once a potential target was identified, the gang would often approach and ask the victim about their gang affiliation, though they did not always wait for a response before opening fire. After committing the murders, the gang members would quickly flee the scene, with the spotter vehicle trailing behind to confuse or mislead law enforcement. This tactical approach, designed to make it more difficult for authorities to track the perpetrators, contributed to the group’s ability to carry out violent acts with impunity. In total, the gang committed 11 murders and 17 attempted murders, with a pattern of violence stretching over three years. Other crimes committed by the group included robbery, drug trafficking, and the illegal sale of firearms.

The Sentencing of Alvarado and Other Members

Alvarado’s plea comes after several of his co-defendants were sentenced in September 2024. Members of the “Murder Squad” received lengthy prison sentences, with sentences ranging from 25 to 41 years. Siaki “Shocky” “Gunner” Tavale, 27, was sentenced to 41 years in prison; John “Romeo” Magat, 37, received a 37-year sentence; and Anthony “Hitter” “Tony Boronda” Valdez, 27, was sentenced to 31 years. Other members, including Anelu “Angel” Tavale and Mark Anthony “Tony from Santa Rita” Garcia, received sentences of 27 and 25 years, respectively. These individuals pleaded guilty to charges of murder and racketeering conspiracy. U.S. Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey condemned the actions of the group, describing their behavior as “reprehensible” and noting that their violent actions had forever altered the lives of many innocent people in Salinas.

The Community’s Impact and Future Sentencing

The violent actions of the “Murder Squad” left a lasting impact on the community of Salinas. Local authorities, in collaboration with federal law enforcement, worked tirelessly to dismantle the gang and bring its members to justice. Alvarado’s sentencing, scheduled for July 15, will serve as a significant moment in the ongoing fight against gang violence in the region. Alvarado faces the possibility of life in prison, which serves as a reminder of the severe consequences for those involved in gang-related activities and violence. His case, along with those of his co-defendants, highlights the importance of continued collaboration between local and federal authorities to combat organized crime in communities like Salinas.