The following is a press release from the Lubbock Police Department:
The Metro Special Crimes Unit is seeking information on the suspicious death of 51-year-old Cristino Gil Ortiz. Crime Line callers with information on his death may now be eligible for a reward up to $10,000 thanks to a donation by the Kerby and Wade Law Offices.
On February 1st, Ortiz was discovered deceased inside his Lakeview Apartment located at 2102 38th Street. Based on the initial investigation, detectives believe his death is suspicious and foul play was involved.
Ortiz, an Army veteran, was known to be homeless and was recently provided housing by Vetstar at Lakeview Apartments. He began living in apartment unit #5 around November of 2018 and is the last known person to live there.
At this time, the circumstances surrounding his death are unclear. The time of death is also unknown, but detectives now believe his death occurred sometime in November.
Detectives are asking for the public’s help with the investigation and are looking for information about Ortiz including past acquaintances or family, places he would visit or stay, his habits, routines and any other tips that could help investigators learn more about his history. Ortiz was also known to live in Amarillo for several years. Detectives are looking for anyone with information about his time in Amarillo as well.
People with information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, should call Crime Line at 806-741-1000. Callers can remain anonymous.
Through a new partnership, Kerby and Wade Law Offices in Lubbock is dedicating an additional $5,000 to the original Crime Line Reward, bringing the total possible reward to $10,000.
This case remains under investigation by the Metro Special Crimes Unit.
(Press release from Lubbock Police)
