Calif. man accused of fatally strangling sheet metal worker with power cord in 1987

SAN JOSE, Calif. (TCN) -- A man faces a charge of murder after allegedly fatally strangling a local sheet metal and machine worker more than 37 years ago.

The Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office made the announcement on Sept. 20. Prosecutors said that on April 22, 1987, family members found 46-year-old Jesus Ibarra dead inside his apartment. Police believe the suspect and Ibarra knew each other. Ibarra’s necklace, ring, and car had also been stolen. Ibarra’s burned vehicle was found on April 21, 1987.

An autopsy determined Ibarra died of blunt force trauma to his neck, but no suspects were identified at the time, and the case went cold.

According to the district attorney’s office, investigators tested DNA evidence this year, which pointed to Joseph Abeyta as the primary suspect. County records show that a month after Ibarra’s death, Abeyta lived near where Ibarra’s vehicle had been located.

According to KTVU-TV, officials found Abeyta’s DNA on Ibarra’s arm and thigh, a shirt, a beer can, and a semen stain on a blanket. Investigators also reportedly located Abeyta’s DNA on a power cord, which they suspect he used to strangle Ibarra.

In a statement obtained by KTVU, Santa Clara County Deputy District Attorney Michael Gilman said Abeyta’s "DNA was on that electrical cord, which was tragically, horribly, wrapped around the victim’s neck."

Abeyta faces 25 years to life in prison if convicted.

The suspect was reportedly in custody for weapons and identity theft charges and had been arrested for other crimes, including substance abuse and robbery.

Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen said, "There is no statute of limitations on finding, arresting, and prosecuting people who hurt and kill the people of our community. Violent criminals should look over their shoulders because we’re coming."

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