Arrest Made in Fatal Shooting of Pastor in California

Joel Martin Dukes III, 22, was taken into custody last week regarding the shooting death of 40-year-old Pastor Felipe Asensio in Ramona, California, earlier this month.

Authorities arrested Dukes III on Friday, suspecting him of murder. San Diego County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a call at his home on 8th Avenue around 2:35 PM on September 7. Paramedics arrived, but Asensio was pronounced dead at the scene.

The shooting is believed to be an isolated incident, though the motive is still under investigation.

During Asensio’s funeral last Friday, loved ones honored him as someone who always motivated others to push forward. As his niece Gabriela Ledezma put it, “His last words are about not looking back, just moving ahead.” She vividly recalled how being around him was uplifting, as he had a way of making moments feel joyful.

Other church members expressed their grief, reflecting on the positive impact he had on their lives. “He set an example for us all to follow,” noted Francisco Thomas, who was Asensio’s best friend and former roommate.

Flores, who grew up attending Templo Monte Horeb, highlighted how Asensio provided vital emotional support during tough times. “At the end of each service, he would come to us and pray, and I still find myself missing that comforting touch.”

The Asensio family publicly expressed their forgiveness toward the shooter, drawing from their Christian faith and Asensio’s teachings. “The Bible teaches about turning the other cheek, and he really lived by that,” Ledezma remarked.

Asensio is survived by his wife Abigail and two children. His family has set up a fundraising campaign that has raised over $34,000 to support them during this difficult period. “Abigail is heartbroken over losing her beloved husband. He was dedicated not only as a father but also as a pastor at Mount Horeb Church here in Ramona,” stated the campaign organizer. “Every contribution, no matter how small, brings comfort in this painful time.”