LOS ANGELES, CA – Authorities are actively searching for a fugitive wanted in connection with the deaths of a 3-year-old girl and her father after a truck crashed into their Long Beach apartment in 2022.
The suspect, 26-year-old Octavio Montano Islas, is accused of killing 42-year-old Jose Palacios-Gonzalez and his daughter, Samantha Palacios, as they slept inside their apartment. According to Long Beach police, Islas was allegedly driving under the influence when the crash occurred. He fled the scene on foot and has evaded capture ever since.
The fatal incident took place on the night of March 1, 2022. Surveillance footage from the area showed a 2014 Dodge Ram pickup truck speeding recklessly down Rose Avenue after making a sharp turn from Artesia Boulevard. Moments later, the vehicle plowed into the apartment unit where the Palacios family lived, leaving behind a trail of devastation.
Jose Palacios-Gonzalez was pronounced dead at the scene, while his daughter Samantha was rushed to a nearby hospital but succumbed to her injuries shortly after.
“Samantha had an entire life ahead of her until Octavio Montano Islas viciously cut it short,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn. “I can’t imagine the pain and anguish that Samantha and Jose’s family have felt since this loss, but we’re committed to bringing the man responsible for it to justice. If you know where Octavio is or where he might have gone, please share that information with detectives.”
Detectives believe Islas was intoxicated at the time of the crash. An arrest warrant has been issued for him, charging him with two counts of felony manslaughter, one count of felony driving under the influence, and one count of felony hit-and-run.
On January 15, 2025, authorities announced a $10,000 reward for information leading to Islas’ arrest and conviction. Islas is described as being 5 feet 8 inches tall, weighing approximately 160 pounds, with tattoos on his right forearm.
The Long Beach Police Department has urged anyone with knowledge of Islas’ whereabouts to come forward. Tips can be directed to Detective Scott Jenson at 562-570-7218. Officials emphasize that all information will be handled confidentially, and even the smallest detail could prove instrumental in capturing the fugitive.
The Palacios family continues to grieve the tragic loss of their loved ones. Local community leaders have joined the call for justice, urging residents to assist in locating Islas. “This family deserves closure, and the man responsible for this devastating crime must be held accountable,” Hahn added.
The crash and its aftermath have drawn renewed attention to the dangers of driving under the influence and the need for stricter enforcement of DUI laws. As authorities work to apprehend Islas, they are also reminding the public of the ongoing toll such reckless behavior takes on families and communities.
Residents who wish to remain anonymous can also submit tips through the Long Beach Crime Stoppers line or online platforms. Law enforcement remains steadfast in their efforts to bring closure to the Palacios family and ensure that justice is served.
