Two Nampa men are facing first-degree murder charges in connection with a February 2024 shooting that killed one person and wounded another, according to Nampa Police. Elias Romeo Cervantes, 23, and Gustavo Sanchez Jr., 20, were taken into custody Wednesday and booked into the Canyon County Jail.
Fatal Shooting Claimed a 21-Year-Old’s Life
The charges stem from a shooting on February 10, 2024, in Nampa that left 21-year-old Fabion Delagarza dead. A second victim was wounded but survived. Investigators previously characterized the incident as gang-related. Both suspects face charges of first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder.
The case has a complicated legal history. Court records show both Cervantes and Sanchez were initially arrested in May 2024 — each charged with accessory to first-degree murder and destruction of evidence. In Cervantes’ case, prosecutors requested dismissal of those charges roughly two weeks after his arrest. Sanchez’s earlier charges were dismissed several months later. The reasons behind either dismissal have not been made public.
Nampa Violent Crimes Unit Credits Persistent Investigation
Nampa Police Sgt. Brad Barnum credited the department’s Violent Crimes Unit with bringing the case to this point. “These arrests are the result of hard work, dedication, and relentless follow-up,” Barnum said in a statement. “Our community is safer today because of this work and these arrests.”
For more details on the investigation and the timeline leading to Wednesday’s arrests, see the full report on the Nampa Police Department’s pursuit of this case.
What Comes Next
Cervantes and Sanchez remain in custody at the Canyon County Jail pending further court proceedings. As first-degree murder cases in Idaho carry severe penalties, both men face potentially lengthy legal battles ahead. Prosecutors have not yet detailed what new evidence or investigative developments led to the upgraded charges and re-arrest of the two Nampa men. The Canyon County court system will determine next steps, including arraignment dates and bail considerations.
Residents seeking broader coverage of public safety issues across the Treasure Valley can follow developments at Idaho News.