Lilburn Man Charged with Murder in Death of Roommate on Comanche Court

Gwinnett County Police have charged a man in connection with the death of 21-year-old Jorge De La Cruz following an assault that occurred on July 4 at a residence on the 4000 block of Comanche Court in unincorporated Lilburn.

Officers from the West Precinct responded to the scene after receiving a report of an assault. Upon arrival, they discovered De La Cruz suffering from a severe head injury. He was transported to Northside Hospital in critical condition. The Gwinnett County Police Department’s Crime Scene Unit and detectives launched an investigation at the residence.

A witness at the scene, who also lived in the residence, told officers he found De La Cruz injured and called 911. He also stated that a third roommate had left the home prior to police arrival.

Shortly after, the third roommate—identified as 40-year-old Martin Montiel-Moreno of Lilburn—approached a Forsyth County deputy and stated that police were looking for him. Montiel-Moreno was taken into custody and transported to Gwinnett County Police Headquarters for questioning. He was then booked into the Gwinnett County Jail and initially charged with aggravated assault and aggravated battery.

On July 6, De La Cruz died from his injuries. Detectives subsequently obtained arrest warrants upgrading the charges against Montiel-Moreno to felony murder and malice murder.

According to investigators, all three men were roommates and known to each other. The motive for the assault is still under investigation.

Anyone with information is urged to contact GCPD detectives at 770-513-5300. Tipsters wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers at 404-577-TIPS (8477) or visit www.stopcrimeATL.com. A cash reward is available for information leading to an arrest and indictment.