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-Editorial
On September 3, 2024, Kimberly Vega was sentenced to 25 years to life in state prison for her role in the first-degree murder of Pablo Dominguez in El Centro on July 6, 2021. The case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Jessica G. Moreno, with the El Centro Police Department leading the investigation.
Vega was identified as the mastermind behind the murder, having arranged the killing and provided a firearm to the alleged shooter, Athan Estrada, who is also awaiting sentencing for first-degree murder, scheduled for October 7, 2024.
The Imperial County District Attorney’s office coordinated closely with multiple agencies, including the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Yuma District Attorney’s Office, and the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office in Washington State, to ensure the attendance of out-of-state witnesses for the trial. Additionally, investigators from the District Attorney’s office worked diligently to locate other essential witnesses.
Vega was positively identified through witness statements and surveillance video from businesses near the Crown Motel, where the murder took place. Witnesses reported that Vega not only attempted to create an alibi for herself but also bragged about her involvement in the murder to others, further implicating herself in the crime.
This case highlights the collaborative efforts of local and federal law enforcement agencies in addressing violent crime and ensuring justice for victims in the Imperial County community.
