Sanford Man Wanted After Fatal Shooting Inside ETS Gaming Center
SANFORD, NORTH CAROLINA – Police are searching for a 26-year-old man wanted in connection to the fatal shooting of a father inside a gaming center earlier this month .
Victim Identified
The Sanford Police Department confirmed that Eugenio Bolainez Vanegas, 44, was shot and killed during an altercation inside ETS Gaming, located at 1821 Lee Avenue, around 5:45 a.m. on September 6.
Family members described Vanegas as a beloved father and community member. “He was a vibrant, kind-hearted soul — someone who lit up every room with his energy, laughter, and warmth,” his cousin Elizabeth Vanegas wrote. His relatives have also launched a fundraiser to help cover funeral and memorial expenses .
Suspect on the Run
Police have identified Wilser Joel Aragon Gutierrez, 26, of Sanford, as the suspect in the shooting. A first-degree murder warrant has been issued for his arrest.
As of Saturday, Gutierrez remains at large, and officers are asking for the public’s help in locating him .
ETS Gaming: A Popular Local Business
Elijah Ussery, owner of ETS Gaming, told reporters that the center offers a range of gaming options, from consoles like Xbox and PlayStation to virtual headsets and tabletop games such as Dungeons and Dragons.
He added that Madden Football is the most popular console game at the center and that he also rents the space out for parties and events, making it a well-known spot in the community .
Police Appeal for Information
Authorities are urging anyone with information about Gutierrez’s whereabouts to contact the Sanford Police Department Detective Division at 919-775-8268.
Do you believe gaming centers and late-night venues in small towns like Sanford need stricter security measures to prevent violence? Share your thoughts with us at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
