Oxnard Soccer Player Beaten In Melee At Match Dies

Monday July 25, 2022

    Updated--Oxnard police say the soccer player who was beaten during a melee at a match July 10th has died.

     They say 29-year-old Misael Sanchez of Port Hueneme spent 15 days in intensive care at VCMC but never recovered.

     An autopsy is scheduled for Tuesday to determine Sanchez' cause of death.

     Police say he was attacked by several people after the fight broke out because of a disputed call by a referee during the match at Oxnard High School.

     They say the brawl involved the adult players from both teams as well as spectators.

     When first responders arrived at the scene, Sanchez was unresponsive and not breathing and was rushed to the hospital in critical condition.

     Police arrested a 46-year-old man in connection with the incident but he was released from jail after the District Attorney's Office failed to file charges within the 48 hour statutory limit.

     Prosecutors needed more investigation and information before making a filing decision on any potential suspects.

     And police say they still need public help in gathering that evidence which includes what they believe is crucial video of the incident.

Detectives believe there were spectators in the stands, players from both teams, and other persons at the soccer game who witnessed the fight. Detectives also believe that persons may have video recorded the fight. Detectives are asking anyone who witnessed the fight or who has video recordings of the incident to contact Detective Cary Everhart at (805) 486-6228 or carey.everhart@oxnardpd.org, or Detective Jaime Miranda at (805) 385-7547 or jaime.miranda@oxnardpd.org.

Also, you can remain anonymous and still provide valuable information by calling Ventura County Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477. You can also visit www.venturacountycrimestoppers.org to submit a tip via text or email.

Anyone with a video recording of the fight can remain anonymous and upload the video to the following link: https://oxnardpd.evidence.com/axon/citizen/public/oxnardhighsoccer