Jose Ceja, 3/9/2008

Name: Jose Ceja

Synopsis: Ceja, 55, was shot and killed March 9 by someone who knocked on the front door of his east Modesto home. Ceja, his girlfriend and several others were at the home, in the 500 block of Navarre Place, about 11:15 p.m. when someone knocked. Ceja's girlfriend answered and saw a man with a rifle. She grabbed the rifle and was thrown to the ground. Ceja was shot when he went toward the door. He was rushed to Memorial Medical Center and pronounced dead a short time later.

Motivation: Police said they recovered a "significant quantity of drugs" from the Navarre Place home. Authorities said they do not know whether this shooting was gang-related.

Suspect: The shooter fled after the attack. He was wearing a red hooded sweat shirt and dark clothing. Police said several other people were with him during the attack.

Authorities ask anyone with information about this homicide to call Detective Phil Owen at 572-9589 or Crime Stoppers at 521-4636. Tipsters can e-mail tips on the Crime Stoppers Web site, or text them to CRIMES (274637) by typing "Tip704" plus the message. Tipsters can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.

If you would like to submit photos of this victim or have other information to share, please email homicides@modbee.com.