Jessica Morales, aged 65, was tragically killed in a stabbing incident at a Walmart Supercenter in Lake Elsinore, California on Monday, August 5, 2024. The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department was alerted to an assault at the store, situated on the 29000 block of Central Avenue, shortly after seven o’clock in the morning.
Deputies, upon reaching the scene, discovered Morales, a resident of Menifee, critically injured with multiple stab wounds. Despite immediate attempts at providing medical aid, Morales was declared dead at the location.
The alleged perpetrator has been identified as Lonnie Hinton, 29, from Wildomar. Hinton was on parole, having been released from prison in March 2024 after serving time for a robbery conviction. Following the Walmart incident, Hinton turned himself over to the authorities at the Lake Elsinore Sheriff’s Station. He is now facing charges of first-degree murder and is being held without bail at the Cois Byrd Detention Center.
According to a press release from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office, the assault appears to have been random in nature, with no evidence of prior contact between Hinton and Morales. The incident has left the community and Walmart employees in a state of shock, as investigators have yet to determine a motive for the violent assault.
In an official statement, a Walmart representative expressed condolences and announced that the Lake Elsinore store would remain closed during the ongoing investigation. The company expressed profound sadness over the attack and extended its support to Morales’ family, as well as to its employees during this difficult time.
Hinton’s criminal history includes an arrest in 2020 for allegedly stabbing a restaurant employee in Perris, California. The victim survived the attack and the charges for assault with a deadly weapon were dismissed as part of a plea deal, leading to Hinton’s robbery conviction. This recent incident has raised questions about his parole status and the factors that might have contributed to the deadly assault at Walmart.
An anonymous coworker described Morales as an exceptionally kind individual and a cherished friend, emphasizing her popularity among her peers and the profound impact of her loss.
Lake Elsinore, a scenic community located approximately 75 miles southeast of Los Angeles, is recognized for its peaceful ambiance. This violent incident has disrupted the tranquility of this suburban town, leaving residents and local authorities demanding justice for Morales.
The Lake Elsinore Walmart remains inaccessible as the investigation continues. Walmart is providing support to its employees as they navigate the aftermath of this tragic event. As the investigation unfolds, the community’s focus is on healing and ensuring justice is served.