Richmond Police Arrested Suspect in 2025 Homicide
Authorities have taken Joshawn Harris into custody following the 2025 shooting death of 23-year-old Josue Cornejo.
Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Violence
Richmond police arrested Joshawn Harris on September 30, 2026, for the homicide of 23-year-old Josue Cornejo. The arrest follows an investigation into a shooting that took place on November 17, 2025.
Why it matters
This arrest marks a significant development in the investigation into the death of Josue Cornejo, which was initially reported to authorities via a ShotSpotter alert. Police continue to investigate the circumstances of the shooting that occurred on Bissell Avenue.
Joshawn Harris is being held at the Martinez Detention Facility on a $5 million bail. He faces charges including homicide, assault with a deadly weapon, and possession of a firearm.
The players
Joshawn Harris
He is the suspect currently detained at the Martinez Detention Facility on homicide and firearm charges.
Josue Cornejo
He was the 23-year-old victim of the fatal shooting incident on Bissell Avenue.
Richmond Police
The local law enforcement agency responsible for investigating the homicide and managing the suspect's arrest.
The details
On November 17, 2025, dispatchers received reports of shots fired and a ShotSpotter alert in the 1400 block of Bissell Avenue, where the victim was killed. Investigators have since utilized video footage to identify additional leads and a person of interest.
Timeline
November 17, 2025: Josue Cornejo was killed in a shooting.
September 30, 2026: Joshawn Harris was taken into police custody.
Legal Context
The reliance on ShotSpotter technology reflects a broader trend in municipal policing where automated acoustic sensors are used to alert officers to violence in real-time. This case follows established protocols for utilizing surveillance footage alongside technical evidence to secure charges.
The arrest of Joshawn Harris brings an update to a violent incident that previously disrupted the neighborhood near Bissell Avenue. Local residents and business owners are encouraged to contact authorities if they have information regarding the unidentified person of interest.
The takeaway
The use of automated technology like ShotSpotter serves as a critical tool for police when responding to violent incidents in urban areas. Community members can assist ongoing investigations by reporting tips related to surveillance imagery released by local agencies.
Further reading
For more on public safety in the region, visit Richmond violence.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Contra Costa News.
