Santa Barbara Sheriff’s Department Identifies Man Found on Highway 154

September 19, 2007 - Los Olivos

A passing motorist on Highway 154 called authorities early Monday morning after seeing a man in a sleeping bag lying just off the roadway. The man was found deceased on Highway 154 just west of Los Olivos, approximately 1 mile east of Highway 101. The body was conspicuously located in the driveway of a ranch property at 3220 Highway 154, about 20 feet from the roadway.

The victim has been identified as 23 year old Adan Cervantes Ruiz (DOB 12-19-83). An autopsy performed yesterday determined that Mr. Ruiz’ died as a result of a gunshot wound. Sheriff’s Investigators have ruled the death a Homicide. Investigators believe the crime occurred elsewhere, and are looking for information that may lead them to the crime scene.

Sheriff's Detectives continue to request information from any witnesses to the events occurring along Hwy 154 west of Los Olivos, CA during the late hours of September 16th and the early morning hours of September 17th. Additionally, the Santa Barbara Sheriff's Department is requesting the public’s assistance in obtaining any information regarding Adan Cervantes Ruiz, his residence, employment, history, acquaintances, relatives or activity. Sheriff’s Investigators believe that Mr. Ruiz may have ties to Santa Barbara County as well as Los Angeles and Riverside Counties. Anyone with information relevant to Mr. Ruiz is asked to contact Sheriff’s Investigators at (805) 934-6170.

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