COLTON, Calif. — A tragic act of violence has shaken the Colton community, leaving family, friends, and neighbors mourning the heartbreaking loss of Armando Andrez Cayetano, who was fatally shot during a roadway altercation on Monday, October 27, 2025. What began as a confrontation between two motorists ended in unimaginable tragedy, cutting short the life of a young man remembered for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for his family.
According to the Colton Police Department (CPD), officers were dispatched to the area of North Rancho Avenue and West Valley Boulevard shortly before 9:20 p.m., following reports of shots fired. Upon arrival, they discovered 31-year-old Armando Andrez Cayetano suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency responders provided immediate medical aid, but despite their best efforts, Cayetano was pronounced dead at the scene.
After an overnight investigation, Colton Police detectives identified Lorens Cota, a Bloomington resident, as the primary suspect in the shooting. With the assistance of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, Cota was taken into custody early Tuesday morning and booked on suspicion of murder. Authorities have not yet disclosed the specific circumstances that led to the deadly encounter but believe the shooting stemmed from a road rage altercation between the two men.
“This was a senseless act of violence that has devastated a family and impacted our entire community,” said Colton Police Chief Henry Dominguez. “We are grateful for the quick actions of our officers and partner agencies in identifying and arresting the suspect. Our hearts go out to the victim’s loved ones.”
The tragic news of Armando’s death has left the Colton community in shock and mourning. Those who knew him describe him as a warm-hearted, hardworking man who always put others before himself. He was deeply committed to his family and known for his humor, loyalty, and willingness to help anyone in need.
“Armando was one of the kindest people you could meet,” said his cousin Maria Lopez. “He didn’t deserve this. He was always smiling, always looking out for everyone. We’re heartbroken.”
Friends recall Armando’s passion for cars and his dream of opening his own small auto repair shop someday. Outside of work, he cherished spending time with loved ones — barbecuing on weekends, watching sports, and making memories with those closest to him.
“He had such a big heart,” said longtime friend Luis Hernandez. “He never liked conflict. He just wanted peace and happiness. Losing him this way doesn’t make sense.”
As the investigation continues, police are urging anyone who may have witnessed the altercation or has dashcam footage from the area of Rancho Avenue and Valley Boulevard between 9:00 and 9:30 p.m. to come forward. Detectives are also reviewing nearby surveillance footage to piece together the exact sequence of events leading up to the fatal shooting.
A makeshift memorial has formed at the site of the tragedy, where family and friends have gathered to light candles, lay flowers, and remember a life lost too soon. Messages of love and sorrow line the curbside — tributes to a man who meant so much to so many.
The Colton community has also come together online, with dozens of tributes pouring in on social media. Many posts reflect the same sentiment: disbelief, grief, and a call for peace in the wake of senseless violence.
“Another life taken too soon,” one community member wrote. “We need more compassion and less anger on our roads and in our hearts. Rest in peace, Armando.”
As the Cayetano family prepares to lay their loved one to rest, they are asking for prayers and privacy as they navigate this unimaginable loss. A GoFundMe page has been created to assist with funeral expenses and to support the family during this difficult time.
Though the pain is immeasurable, those who knew Armando Andrez Cayetano find solace in remembering his laughter, his kindness, and the love he gave so freely. His tragic passing serves as a powerful reminder of how fleeting life can be — and how deeply one person’s presence can touch a community.
“Armando will never be forgotten,” his sister said. “He will live on in our hearts, in our memories, and in every act of kindness done in his name.”
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