Investigators in Orange County have identified the victim of a homicide case that could have ties to San Diego County.
According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD), Francesco “Joey” Bonomolo, 47, was found dead inside his apartment in the 27000 block of Los Altos in Mission Viejo on Sunday.
Investigators said that based on evidence discovered at the scene, a physical altercation may have occurred inside the apartment leading up to Bonomolo’s death.
The case is being investigated as a homicide. Bonomolo’s cause of death has not yet been released, as the investigation is ongoing.
The victim’s vehicle – a silver, four-door, 2006 Toyota Corolla – is missing. The car has the California license plate 5ULA168. Investigators are asking the public for help in locating this vehicle.
Anyone with information is asked to call the OCSD Homicide Unit at (714) 647-7055 or Orange County Crime Stoppers at (855) 847-6227. Officials said the outstanding Toyota Corolla is not registered to Bonomolo or titled in his name, but it’s the car that he drove on a regular basis.
OCSD Lt. Jeff Hallock said investigators believe the case may have a connection to San Diego County. Bonomolo may have acquaintances in the San Diego area.
