Suspicious Death In North County Prompts Homicide Investigation

VISTA, CA — Authorities have launched a homicide investigation after a person found dead in an empty lot in Vista was determined to have suffered a brain bleed that may be linked to head trauma.

Deputies from the Vista Sheriff's Station responded Monday to a report of a deceased person in the 1200 block of Hacienda Drive, where they found the victim with no obvious signs of trauma at the scene, according to the San Diego County Sheriff's Office. The San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office took custody of the body.

An autopsy was conducted on Wednesday that revealed the victim sustained a brain bleed that could have resulted from trauma to the head. Following those findings, the Sheriff's Homicide Unit assumed responsibility for the investigation.

Authorities said the Medical Examiner will determine the identity of the victim, as well as the official cause and manner of death.

Authorities asked anyone with information about the case to call the Sheriff's Homicide Unit at at 858-285-6330 or after hours at 858-868-3200. Anonymous tips can be submitted through San Diego County Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477.