Suspected Drug Deal Leads to Murder of Hesperia Man

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HESPERIA, CA. – A Hesperia man lost his life as a result of a suspected drug deal gone wrong on Monday evening.

Just before 6:30 p.m. deputies from the Hesperia Station responded to the area of Smoke Tree Street and First Avenue for the report of a disturbance and shots fired. When they arrived they found James Curtis Hampton, 39, of Hesperia lying in the roadway unresponsive. Medical personnel pronounced Hampton deceased at the scene. Homicide Detectives responded to assume the investigation.

The investigation determined that the two armed male suspects confronted Hamton at his home at Smoke Tree Street leading to a fight. Hampton ran into the street and was shot by one of the suspects. One of Hampton’s acquaintances was near the home and heard the fight. He went to check on Hampton and was confronted by a suspect who struck him with a gun. The suspects left in a black truck and a gold-colored sedan. Detectives believe the suspects intended to rob Hampton of money and/or drugs. It is unknown at this time if any property was taken.

Detectives have interviewed several witnesses and are asking for anyone with information regarding the identity of the suspects, or neighbors with home security camera footage, to contact Detective Simon DeMuri, Specialized Investigations Division – Homicide Detail at (909)387-3589. Callers can remain anonymous and contact WeTip at 800-78CRIME or www.wetip.com.