Hector Manuel Prado Jr. Obituary, Death – Authorities in Kern County have released the identity of a man who was found deceased in a field near Wasco last week. According to a statement from the Kern County Coroner’s Office, the individual has been identified as 40-year-old Hector Manuel Prado Jr.
The report states that on October 23, 2025, around 5:30 p.m., deputies and emergency personnel were called to a field located southwest of West Lerdo Highway and Wildwood Road. Upon arrival, they discovered a man who was unresponsive. Officials later confirmed that the individual, identified as Prado Jr., had passed away at the scene.
Following standard procedure, an autopsy was conducted by the coroner’s office to determine the cause and manner of death. The findings indicated that Prado Jr. sustained multiple gun-related injuries, and the manner of death has been classified as a homicide. The Kern County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) is currently overseeing the investigation to determine what led to the incident.
Law enforcement officials have not yet released details regarding possible suspects or motives, and no arrests have been reported at this time. Investigators are continuing to gather evidence, review forensic materials, and speak with individuals who may have information relevant to the case. Detectives are also working to establish a timeline of events leading up to Prado Jr.’s discovery.
The area where the incident occurred, located just outside the city limits of Wasco, was temporarily closed off to allow crime scene personnel to conduct their work safely and thoroughly. Deputies were seen documenting evidence and examining the surrounding terrain for any additional clues that could shed light on what happened.
The Kern County Coroner’s Office confirmed that Prado Jr.’s family has been notified. Authorities expressed their condolences to the family and stated that every effort is being made to ensure a complete and transparent investigation.
Community members in the Wasco area have reacted with sadness and concern following news of the discovery. Many described the area near Lerdo Highway and Wildwood Road as typically quiet and peaceful, and residents say they were surprised by the large law enforcement presence that evening. Officials reassured the public that there is currently no indication of an ongoing threat to the wider community and that this appears to have been an isolated occurrence.
The Kern County Sheriff’s Office has encouraged anyone who may have been in the area on the afternoon or evening of October 23 to come forward if they saw anything unusual or have information that could assist investigators. Even small details, officials noted, could prove vital in piecing together the full context of the incident. Members of the public can provide tips by calling the sheriff’s office directly or submitting information anonymously through the department’s tip line.
As part of the ongoing investigation, detectives are analyzing physical evidence and awaiting the full results of laboratory testing and ballistic reports. These findings will help authorities better understand the sequence of events and potentially identify those responsible.
Officials have stated that updates will be provided as more verified information becomes available. The Kern County Sheriff’s Office and the coroner’s division continue to work closely to ensure that all leads are pursued and that the family of the victim receives answers and closure.
In summary, 40-year-old Hector Manuel Prado Jr. has been identified as the man found deceased in a field near West Lerdo Highway and Wildwood Road in Wasco on October 23, 2025. The coroner’s autopsy determined that his death resulted from multiple gun-related injuries and was ruled a homicide. The Kern County Sheriff’s Office is conducting an active investigation and encourages anyone with information to reach out as the search for answers continues.
