WHATCOM COUNTY, WA – On Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025, at approximately 10:27 p.m., the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported physical domestic incident in the 8300 block of Valley View Road, Custer. While en route, dispatchers received a subsequent report of “shots fired” at the residence, prompting a multi-agency response.
Upon arrival, deputies entered the residence and discovered a deceased male, later identified as 52-year-old Angel Rodriguez, with multiple gunshot wounds. A preliminary investigation revealed that a verbal argument had escalated between 43-year-old Valentin Rivera and Rodriguez, who were reportedly intoxicated.
Witnesses reported that Rivera attempted to stop Rodriguez from allegedly driving due to his intoxication, leading to an altercation in which Rivera allegedly shot Rodriguez.Rivera was transported to PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center for examination.
He was medically cleared and booked into jail.The investigation also revealed probable cause to arrest Rivera for Domestic Violence (DV) Assault against two additional victims during the altercation.
Medical personnel treated these victims at the scene, and one was transported to the hospital for further treatment.
Rivera was taken into custody and booked into the Whatcom County Jail on charges of Murder 2nd Degree for the death of Angel Rodriguez, Assault 2nd Degree – DV. Assault 4th Degree – DV. – This is an active investigation.
Note: this information was emailed to Bellingham Metro News from the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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