Luis Alberto Quiroz-Arreola, affectionately known to loved ones as "Beto," was fatally shot shortly after 2am on Monday, October 5, while working an overnight security shift at Crystal Pier near the western end of Garnet Avenue. The killing prompted a homicide investigation in one of San Diego's busiest coastal neighborhoods, and authorities have not announced an arrest or publicly established a motive.
On Friday, October 9, the San Diego Police Department released video of an individual investigators are seeking to identify in connection with the homicide. The person depicted appears to have a relatively light complexion and is dressed in dark clothing, including what appears to be a black hooded sweatshirt with the hood pulled over the head. The individual also appears to leave the area on an electric bicycle, a potentially important detail as detectives seek witnesses who may have observed the person's movements before or after the shooting.
Police have not publicly confirmed the individual's identity, and the apparent complexion, clothing and method of departure are visual observations rather than a detailed suspect description independently established by investigators. Anyone who recognizes the person or has information about the incident is being urged to contact authorities rather than attempt to confront the individual.
The shooting unfolded shortly after 2am in the 4500 block of Ocean Boulevard, where Crystal Pier extends into the Pacific Ocean. According to police, employees of a nearby bar heard gunshots and rushed outside, discovering Quiroz-Arreola critically wounded. They immediately began administering first aid before San Diego Police officers and San Diego Fire-Rescue personnel arrived and continued lifesaving efforts.
Quiroz-Arreola was transported to a hospital, where he died from his injuries. Witnesses reportedly attempted to pursue the shooter immediately after the attack, although authorities have not disclosed the circumstances leading up to the shooting or whether the victim had any interaction with the suspect before the gunfire.
As homicide detectives continue their investigation, the victim's family is now confronting the emotional and financial consequences of his unexpected death. A GoFundMe campaign titled "In Loving Memory of Luis 'Beto'" was organized by his cousin, Bianca Torres, to help his mother cover funeral and memorial expenses.
"Beto was only 31 years old and still had so much life ahead of him," Torres wrote in the fundraiser's description, explaining that her cousin was killed while working security at Crystal Pier.
Torres described Quiroz-Arreola as a loving father, son, cousin and friend whose loss has devastated his family. She confirmed that he leaves behind a daughter and his mother, both of whom are now mourning his death as the family attempts to arrange a meaningful farewell.
"His passing was completely unexpected, and our family is heartbroken and trying to process this unimaginable loss," Torres wrote. She explained that donations will help the family cover funeral and memorial expenses and provide Quiroz-Arreola with the respectful farewell his loved ones believe he deserves.
At the time the fundraising page was reviewed, the campaign had collected $2,305 from 31 donations toward its $4,500 goal, placing it slightly more than halfway to its target. Contributions have come from friends, relatives and other supporters, including several donations of $100 or more.
The family's appeal also includes a request for privacy as loved ones grieve and investigators work to determine what happened. Torres encouraged anyone with information about the shooting to contact law enforcement and expressed appreciation for those who have offered support, condolences and assistance.
The fundraiser provides a more personal picture of a victim whose death initially became known through police reports describing a fatal shooting at a well-known Pacific Beach landmark. Beyond his work as a security guard, Quiroz-Arreola was a father, a son and a cherished member of a family now faced with explaining an irreversible loss to his daughter while preparing to bury him.
Crystal Pier, which opened in 1927, is among Pacific Beach's most recognizable landmarks, with its wooden boardwalk and distinctive blue-and-white cottages extending over the ocean. The property includes the privately operated Crystal Pier Hotel & Cottages, and security personnel have historically helped oversee access to the pier and its private areas during overnight hours.
The circumstances surrounding the fatal encounter remain unresolved. Investigators have not disclosed whether the shooting was connected to Quiroz-Arreola's security duties, whether he confronted the suspect, or what may have prompted the gunfire. The newly released video represents an important public development in the investigation, but it does not answer those questions.
Police are asking anyone who recognizes the individual depicted in the video, witnessed suspicious activity near Crystal Pier around 2am on October 5, or has other relevant information to contact the San Diego Police Department's Homicide Unit at 619-531-2293. Anonymous tips may also be submitted through San Diego County Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477.
Those wishing to assist Quiroz-Arreola's family with funeral expenses can find the GoFundMe campaign titled "In Loving Memory of Luis 'Beto,'" organized by Bianca Torres. The family has asked for privacy and respect as it mourns, while expressing hope that anyone with information will come forward to help investigators bring answers to those left behind.
Originally published on October 9, 2026.
