Update: TCSO Captures Big Oak Flat Murder Suspect
Update at 3:37 p.m.: This afternoon shortly after three o’clock, Tuolumne County Sheriff’s officials reported nabbing a homicide suspect and are thanking a watchful community for their tips and help in spreading the word.
According to sheriff’s spokesperson Sgt. Andrea Benson, detectives were searching the Big Oak Flat area for 42-year-old Elton Quintin Redick, spotted him walking on Highway 120 and shortly after were able to locate and capture him while he was attempting to hide underneath the Claim Jumper Outpost.
As reported below, he is believed to be connected to the homicide of Marc John Dejong, who was found dead Monday morning at his residence on Black Road in Big Oak Flat. Sheriff’s officials responded to that scene just after 10:30 that morning. After next of kin notification his name was released earlier today. Sgt. Benson adds that the property on Black Road was also reported to be the current address of the suspect.
An autopsy on Dejong is scheduled to take place this week to determine the exact cause of death, according to the sergeant. She notes more details will come from her office as they become available, as the investigation is still very active — and the focus is to deliver a case for prosecution that results in proper convictions to the right person or parties.
Update at 12:26 p.m.: A man who was being sought yesterday as a person of interest in a homicide is now officially a suspect.
The Tuolumne County Sheriff’s Office is actively looking for a man with an earlier reported name of Christopher Reed whose official identity has been confirmed as Elton Redick.
Officials are clarifying that the suspect, who they previously thought only used the name “Elton” as a nickname, is known to use several names — including Chris Reed — on Facebook and social media.
As reported below, the homicide of Marc John Dejong that he is believed to be connected to occurred yesterday morning on Black Road in Big Oak Flat. Again, Redick’s description is as follows: 6’2″ tall and 180 to 190 pounds with graying hair and a goatee. He was last seen wearing a white shirt, black and gray camouflage shorts and black flip flops and carries distinguishing marks of a tribal-style tattoo around his forearm and a number tattoo on inner calf.
Officials stress the importance of not personally confronting Redick and to please immediately contact the sheriff’s office at 209 533-5815 or 911 if you see him or know of his whereabouts.
Original Post at 10:09 a.m.: Big Oak Flat, CA — Some new information was released this morning in relation to a homicide investigation in Big Oak Flat.
The Tuolumne County Sheriff’s Office has identified the victim as 48-year-old Marc John Dejong. He was found dead at his home yesterday morning on Black Road. Sgt. Andrea Benson reports that details regarding the cause of death will be released pending the autopsy results. The Tuolumne County Sheriff’s Office is still seeking information about the location of a person of interest in the case, Christopher Reed, 6’2:, 180-190 lbs., who often goes by the name Elton. Anyone with information on the case should contact the Tuolumne County Sheriff’s Office.
Click here to view an earlier story from yesterday.
