The man shot and killed near Winton Park on July 19th has been identified as 69 year old James Buford of Sanger.
Buford was contracted by Fresno County to work as a camp host. This means he was a custodian caretaker hired to provide on-site security for Winton Park. The county has a total of 13 such workers who provide this type of service at seven different county parks.
Around 10:30 pm on Wednesday, a utility worker called law enforcement after finding an injured person, later identified as James Buford, near Piedra and Elwood Roads, which is in the area of Winton Park. EMS, Cal Fire and deputies arrived and found the man, along Piedra Road, outside of the park. EMS transported him to Community Regional Medical Center in Fresno where he later died.
Detectives have not identified any suspects and a motive for this murder is unknown. This remains an ongoing investigation.
Anyone with additional information about this case is asked to please contact Detective Rudy Tafoya at (559) 600-8207 or Crime Stoppers at (559) 498-7867, www.valleycrimestoppers.org You will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward. Reference case # 23-8313.