On December 28, 2002, at 7:04 p.m., Cynthia “Denise” Peppers was in the front yard of her house located at 303 Mann Avenue, in National City. As Peppers was bringing groceries into her house, two vehicles pulled up along the street. Suspects from both vehicles began firing multiple gunshots at three gang associates – the intended victims – who were standing near Peppers in the front yard. Both suspect vehicles fled the area. Officers with the National City Police Department along with paramedics from San Diego Fire Rescue responded to the scene.

Peppers, who was a mother of four children, suffered a gunshot wound to her face and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The three other victims suffered gunshot wounds but did survive their injuries.

Suspects’ Description:

Witnesses at the scene described the suspects’ vehicles as being a red or orange colored Nissan 280 or 300ZX and the second vehicle as a gray Honda Accord or Acura hatchback. Both vehicles were occupied by 4 to 6 males. Both the suspect and the victim group are rival blood gangs.

This case is now being investigated by the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office.

Anyone with information about this murder should call the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office at (619) 531-4277 or the Crime Stoppers anonymous tip line at (888) 580-8477. Visit the Crime Stoppers website at www.sdcrimestoppers.org for more information on how to send anonymous web and mobile app tips.

• Media inquiries about this case should be directed to District Attorney Investigator Anthony Johnson at (619) 531-4277 or email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
• Media inquiries about Crime Stoppers can be directed to Officer Mark Herring at (619) 531-1500 or email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Marcial Lopez at (619) 531-1547 or email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .