Authorities confirmed that a man found dead in the trunk of a vehicle parked on Highway 152 was 42-year-old Hollister resident Javier Becerril. Police are investigating the death as a homicide.
California Highway Patrol officers received a report about 12:19pm July 9 regarding a missing person, says a press release from the CHP. The report indicated the missing man was on State Route 152 east of Lower Cottonwood Road.
CHP officers and Merced County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the location, where they discovered a body inside the trunk of a white Tesla sedan. The man was identified as Becerill.
The CHP Central Division Major Crimes Unit is leading a homicide investigation. Authorities have not identified any suspects or motive.
Becerril’s family has established an online fundraising campaign to help cover funeral and memorial expenses.
“Javier was a father, devoted son, caring brother and cherished cousin,” says the fundraising page on gofundme.com. “He had a kind heart, a generous spirit, and was always willing to help those he loved. His smile, laughter and the memories he created with family and friends will never be forgotten.”
Anyone with information can call the CHP Merced Communication Center at 209.356.2900 or email Ce********@****ca.gov.
