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Suspected killer in death of Stockton fire captain identified

The suspect was identified as Robert Somerville. He's accused of shooting and killing Stockton Fire Captain Vidal "Max" Fortuna.

STOCKTON, Calif. — A 67-year-old man is accused of shooting and killing Stockton Fire Department Captain Vidal "Max" Fortuna early Monday morning.

The Stockton Police Department identified the suspect as Robert Somerville.

He was booked into the San Joaquin County Jail on weapons charges and a homicide charge.

Police say they found the weapon, a .380 caliber handgun, at the scene.

Fortuna was shot and killed while responding to a dumpster fire, according to Stockton Fire Chief Rick Edwards. He was a 21-year veteran of the department and leaves behind a wife and two grown children.

ABC10 reached out to the Somerville family who provided the following statement below.

“Words alone will never be enough to express the devastation and sorrow that we feel for Stockton Professional Firefighter Max Fortuna’s wife and two children. I can assure Firefighter Fortuna’s immediate Family, and all who care for Mr. Fortuna that this was not an intentional callous act in the death of Mr. Fortuna.

Robert ‘Bob’ Somerville 67 is not a violent person and is a long-standing business owner (and former engineer) in the Stockton community… for over 30 years. He operates his business, and resides in the warehouse that was adjacent to where the fire occurred at 5:00am this morning.

Having been a victim of constant attempted break-ins, due to his business/home being located in an area plagued with the highest concentration of homeless individuals, Mr. Somerville as recently as 1 week ago reinforced parts of his property to add an additional layer of security. It is our understanding that Mr. Somerville believed his property was being burglarized, which led to this horrific chain of tragic events.

We just ask that the Fortuna Family and public please withhold judgment on the state of mind and intent of Mr. Somerville until all of the facts come to light.”

The Stockton firefighters union has started a fundraiser where all funds will go to the Fortuna family. To contribute, click HERE.

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