Shooting victim ID’d as Modesto man, 32

The man shot to death in a downtown alley on Tuesday evening has been identified as Derek Mauldin, 32, of Modesto.

The shooting occurred about 6 p.m. in the alley at F and 15th streets. Mauldin, a graduate of Beyer High School and California State University, Stanislaus, was found in the driver’s seat of his Toyota pickup truck with gunshot wounds. He was transported to a local hospital, where he died a short time later.

Detectives believe Mauldin was driving in the alley when he was shot. His pickup then accelerated and crashed into a cinder-block wall.

Right after the shooting, two suspects left the area on foot, witnesses told police. The men were described as white or Latino in their 20s, wearing dark clothing. Officers used a police dog to search the area, but the men were not found.

Any events that led to the shooting, and a motive, are under investigation. Detectives “don’t really have any leads, so we’re seeking public assistance, following up on any leads” that develop, said Modesto Police Department spokeswoman Heather Graves.

Robert Mauldin, the victim’s father, said his son was an accountant for a few years before seeking other ventures. He said Wednesday that the family had not spoken yet with investigators and has no idea what might have led to the shooting.

Anyone with information on the case is asked to call Detective Robert Gumm at 209-342-9162. Reports also can be made to Crime Stoppers at 209-521-4636. Callers to Crime Stoppers can remain anonymous and are eligible for a reward. Tipsters can text information to Crime Stoppers at 274637; type “TIP704” along with the message.

This story was originally published January 13, 2016 at 2:30 PM with the headline "Shooting victim ID’d as Modesto man, 32."