Tragedy in Oildale: Couple Identified in Apparent Murder-Suicide in Kern County
Bakersfield, Calif. — May 30, 2025-A quiet Oildale neighborhood was the scene of a deeply tragic discovery earlier this week, as authorities confirmed that two people found dead in a home on Park Meadows Drive were the victims of an apparent murder-suicide. The Kern County Coroner’s Office has now publicly identified the deceased as 31-year-old Jasmine Hernandez Ascencio and 25-year-old Joshua Anthony Reveles, both residents of Bakersfield.
According to the coroner’s report, deputies responded to the residence in the 2600 block of Park Meadows Drive on May 26, 2025, at approximately 9:41 a.m., after receiving a report of a possible disturbance or welfare check. Upon arrival, responding deputies from the Kern County Sheriff’s Office made the grim discovery of two individuals unresponsive inside the home.
Medical personnel were immediately summoned to the scene, but both Ascencio and Reveles were pronounced dead shortly after authorities entered the residence. The early stages of the investigation, coupled with forensic findings, led detectives to conclude that the incident was a murder-suicide, with Reveles allegedly fatally shooting Ascencio before turning the weapon on himself.
Victims Identified, Community in Mourning
The identities of the couple were withheld initially pending notification of their next of kin. On Friday, the Kern County Coroner’s Office released an official statement confirming their names and ages. While the coroner has not released detailed autopsy findings, law enforcement officials have stated that both victims died from gunshot wounds.
The news of the tragedy has rippled across the Bakersfield and Oildale communities, with friends and neighbors expressing shock, sadness, and disbelief. Social media posts from those who knew Ascencio describe her as a kind-hearted, hardworking woman who was beloved by friends, family, and co-workers.
“I’m heartbroken. Jasmine was always smiling, always looking out for others. This doesn’t feel real,” one friend wrote on Facebook.
Less is publicly known about Reveles, but early reports suggest the two were in a relationship, possibly living together at the time of the incident. Authorities have not disclosed any prior history of domestic violence or police calls to the residence, but investigators are continuing to examine the couple’s background and relationship dynamics.
Investigation Continues
The Kern County Sheriff’s Office Homicide Unit is actively investigating the case, working alongside the Kern County Coroner’s Office and forensic experts to complete a full timeline of events and determine what may have led to the fatal confrontation.
As is standard in such cases, toxicology results and autopsy reports are pending and will play a crucial role in finalizing the cause and manner of death. Law enforcement has not suggested that any other individuals were involved or present at the time of the shooting.
Detectives are urging anyone with information about the couple’s recent behavior or interactions to come forward. Friends, co-workers, or neighbors who may have noticed signs of distress or conflict are encouraged to contact the Kern County Sheriff’s Office at (661) 861-3110.
Rising Concerns About Domestic Violence and Mental Health
This incident marks yet another heartbreaking chapter in a growing pattern of domestic-related homicides and murder-suicide cases that have plagued communities across California and the U.S. in recent years. Local advocacy groups and mental health professionals are using this moment to underscore the importance of seeking help and intervening early when warning signs of domestic abuse or emotional crisis become apparent.
“This is a devastating loss of life that might have been preventable,” said a spokesperson from the Alliance Against Family Violence and Sexual Assault in Kern County. “We continue to urge individuals in difficult or dangerous relationships to reach out for help—whether you’re a victim or someone close to the situation who’s concerned.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or mental health distress, the following resources are available:
- Alliance Against Family Violence & Sexual Assault (Kern County): (661) 322-0931
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
A Community Left to Grieve
As investigators work to bring clarity to the tragic events of May 26, residents of the Park Meadows neighborhood and the broader Bakersfield area are left reeling from the violent loss of two young lives.
A small makeshift memorial with flowers and candles has begun to form outside the home on Park Meadows Drive, where friends and family have quietly gathered in remembrance.
Funeral arrangements for both Ascencio and Reveles have not yet been announced.
