A 41-year-old Fresno man was arrested on suspicion of homicide after a woman involved in an earlier domestic violence incident was found fatally injured Sunday morning, the Tulare Police Department said.

Officers responded to a report of domestic violence at a party early Sunday. Investigators determined that a man had assaulted a woman and driven her away before officers arrived, police said.

Officers conducted a follow-up investigation but were unable to locate either person. Police shared the information with surrounding law enforcement agencies in an effort to find them.

About 90 minutes later, officers responded to a report of an injured person near Bardsley Avenue and Pratt Street, where they found an adult woman suffering from significant injuries.

Medical personnel provided aid, but the woman died. Investigators determined she was the same woman involved in the earlier domestic violence incident.

Detectives identified Marcelo Rodriguez, 41, of Fresno, as the suspect in both the domestic violence incident and the homicide.

During their search for Rodriguez, detectives learned that the California Highway Patrol had already arrested him on suspicion of driving under the influence in Kings County.

CHP officers observed blood on Rodriguez and his clothing during the DUI arrest, Tulare police said.

Tulare detectives traveled to Kings County and took Rodriguez into custody.

Based on statements and evidence collected during the investigation, Rodriguez was arrested and booked on suspicion of homicide and related charges.

The case will be referred to the Tulare County District Attorney’s Office for review and filing of charges.

Got a Tip?

Police said the investigation remains ongoing and that additional information will be released when appropriate.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Tulare Police Detective D. Grewe at (559) 685-4573 or Detective C. Hinz at (559) 685-4568.

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