Parole Denied in 1995 Gang Shooting That Killed Innocent Bystander

On April 6, 2021, TCDA prosecutors secured a 7-year denial of parole for Richard Alonzo, age 42, for a gang altercation that left an innocent bystander dead.

Around 5:30 pm on January 31, 1995, Alonzo, who was 16-years-old at the time, was involved in a rival gang shootout at the intersection of Ben Maddox and Houston in Visalia. During the incident, Kelly Scott, an innocent bystander and young father, was killed in the crossfire while waiting at a stoplight in his car. Scott’s two-year-old daughter was with him in the car when the shooting occurred. Officers located Alonzo later that evening.

At the time, the case was seen as a shocking instance of gang crime in Visalia and began several discussions on the issue of gangs in the community.

Alonzo pleaded guilty to second-degree murder with the special allegation of use of a firearm and was sentenced to 19 years-to-life in prison. Salvador Castro, one of the rival gang members, is currently serving life in prison for his role in the shooting. Castro was denied parole in 2019.

This was Alonzo’s second parole hearing and a senior deputy district attorney argued against his release. While in custody, Alonzo has exhibited violence against staff and other inmates, and engaged in substance abuse. Parole commissioners noted his lack of remorse and propensity for violence as factors in denying parole.

Media inquiries can be directed to the Office of the District Attorney, County of Tulare Assistant District Attorney Dave Alavezos (559) 636-5494