In a breakthrough more than two decades in the making, authorities have arrested a suspect in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred in California. Corey Sampson, a 45-year-old resident of Hesperia, was taken into custody on Thursday for his alleged involvement in the 2004 killing of Israel Rangel in Moreno Valley, as confirmed by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department.

The tragic incident unfolded on the night of September 1, 2004, when police responded to a distress call on Perris Boulevard. Upon arrival, officers discovered 29-year-old Rangel, who had suffered multiple gunshot wounds. Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, Rangel’s injuries proved fatal, and he was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.

Initially, investigators had identified Sampson as a potential suspect in the case. However, at the time, there was insufficient evidence to bring formal charges against him, leading to the case going cold. The lack of concrete evidence stalled the investigation for many years, leaving questions unanswered and justice unserved.

In a twist of fate, recent efforts by investigators to reexamine the incident bore fruit. By meticulously following new leads, authorities found enough cause to reopen the case and ultimately arrest Sampson. This renewed investigation reflects the determination of law enforcement to pursue justice, no matter how much time has passed.

After an “extensive investigation,” investigators identified Sampson as a suspect in the murder, but insufficient evidence to press charges against him led the case to go cold, authorities added.

Investigators recently reexamined the fatal shooting and followed up on “several leads,” prompting authorities to reopen the case.

Sufficient evidence was developed to support Sampson’s arrest before cops cuffed him with help from the Riverside County District Attorney’s Gang Impact Team, cops said.

The relationship between Sampson and Rangel, nor a motive in the shooting, is immediately clear. Police did not clarify what evidence led to a break in the case.

Sampson was taken to Larry D. Smith Correctional Facility and booked on a murder charge.