Man accused of murdering woman in Southern California Walmart was on probation and has a long criminal past

LAKE ELSINORE, California. – On Tuesday, authorities released new details about the gruesome stabbing death of a Walmart employee in Lake Elsinore.

The incident occurred around 7 a.m. on August 5 at the store in the 29,000 block of Central Avenue, according to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department.

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The suspect, 29-year-old Lonnie Hinton of Wildomar, allegedly stabbed 65-year-old Jessica Morales multiple times. Authorities called the incident a “random incident” because the two did not know each other prior to the incident.

Morales died at the scene.

“She was a really good person. A great friend. Everyone loved her,” said a co-worker who asked not to be identified. He noted that Morales worked at Walmart for over 25 years and was a loving mother and supportive friend.

Hinton later turned himself in to police and was subsequently charged with murder and lying in wait. If convicted on the current charges, Hinton faces a maximum sentence of life in prison.

According to authorities, Hinton was released from state prison earlier this year for a robbery conviction and was on parole at the time of the alleged crime.

His first court date is scheduled for August 8.

Lonnie Hinton was arrested on murder charges in connection with the death of 65-year-old Jessica Morales. / Riverside County Sheriff’s Department

Authorities are not looking for any other suspects in connection with Morales’ fatal stabbing.

In a statement, Walmart said: “We are deeply saddened by what happened at our Lake Elsinore store. The facility will remain closed while we work with police in their investigation. We extend our condolences and support to the family during this difficult time and will continue to work with our associates and provide support as needed.”

Anyone with information may call Investigator K. Farag or Investigator D. Robertson of the Central Homicide Unit at 951–955–2777.