Reward increased in 2007 Fremont cold case homicide

The reward for information that might help solve a 15-year-old Fremont cold case homicide — the fatal shooting of a 19-year-old man in April 2007 — has been increased to $60,000, police said Monday.

The reward is for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of whoever fatally shot Aaron Anthony Breaux about 8:53 p.m. April 29, 2007 in an apartment complex parking lot in the 3800o block of Fremont Boulevard.

Breaux was a graduate of Washington High School and lived in a nearby apartment complex with his family.

During the initial investigation, witnesses told police they heard two gunshots just outside of the apartment but did not see any suspicious persons or vehicles.

Fremont Det. Jacob Blass, who heads the Cold Case Homicide Division, said although there is some information based on witness accounts, police still have not been able to establish a motive for the killing. He said police believe there are people who have knowledge about the killing; investigators are hopeful that by re-sharing the details, someone will come forward with new information and tips.

On March 26, 2008, then-Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger announced the availability of a $50,000 reward in the case. Police said the reward has been confirmed to still be available as part of the governor's crime tip reward program. Breaux's family has raised an additional $10,000 to increase the amount.

Breaux's mother, Debra Florez, said in a statement provided by police that “the past fifteen years has been nothing short of unbearable. Hearing the words `your son has died' shatters your world and everything in it.

“No words can describe the pain and utter desperation you and your loved ones will go through for the rest of our lives. My son was the most kindhearted person, full of life. His presence made you smile and laugh. He could cheer you up in a second. Everyone loved being around him.”

Anyone with information about the killing is asked to please call Detective Blass at 510-7906900 or via email at coldcasedetective@fremont. gov. Anonymous tips can be submitted by text, by sending the text TIP FREMONTPD followed by a short message to 888-777; or by calling the Silent Witness Hotline at 510494-4856.