On August 31, 2020, Merced County Sheriff’s Deputies were called to the 7900 Block of Olive Avenue in Winton for an unresponsive female.

Upon arrival, deputies located 41-year-old Tammy Balloue deceased inside a bedroom of a residence. Investigators discovered Balloue’s vehicle, a Blue 2005 Lexus ES300; license plate 8EPN976 was missing from the residence. In addition, investigators determined that 34-year-old Jorge Luis Martinez was with Balloue earlier in the day but his whereabouts are unknown at this time.

Due to the suspicious nature of the death, investigators are asking if anyone has information on the whereabouts of Martinez or Balloue’s 2005 Lexus ES300; to not approach the vehicle or Martinez and call 9-1-1. The cause of death is still pending.