On October 11, 2025, Washoe County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) deputies responded to a report of a domestic disturbance at a residence in Sun Valley.
Upon arrival, deputies discovered that the suspect had fled the scene. Deputies contacted the adult female victim and conducted an on-scene investigation, determining that a domestic battery by strangulation had occurred. Based on information gathered, deputies believed the suspect was traveling to his residence in Fernley.
WCSO deputies initiated a search for the suspect’s vehicle along Interstate 80. The vehicle was later located abandoned and on fire near the Patrick Exit. Storey County Fire Department responded and extinguished the blaze. Deputies secured the area and conducted a thorough search, but the suspect was not immediately located. Information gathered at the scene suggested the suspect was fleeing toward Lyon County.
WCSO coordinated with surrounding law enforcement agencies to be alert for the suspect. Later that night, Lyon County deputies located and detained the suspect, identified as 26-year-old Angel Banuelos. WCSO deputies responded to Fernley and took Banuelos into custody.
Banuelos was arrested and booked into the Washoe County Detention Facility on the following charges:
- Domestic Battery by Strangulation, a felony
- Prevent/Dissuade Reporting Crime, a felony
- Child Abuse/Neglect, a felony
- False Imprisonment with a Domestic Violence Enhancement, a gross misdemeanor
- Domestic Battery, a misdemeanor
“Every hour of every day and during this Domestic Violence Month, the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office is committed to raising awareness, supporting survivors, holding offenders accountable, and standing beside those impacted by domestic violence,” said Sheriff Darin Balaam. “This is a devastating and insidious crime that affects people throughout our community and from all walks of life. Together, we can break the cycle of violence and work toward a safer community and future.”
We encourage anyone affected by domestic violence to seek help. If you or someone you know is in a violent domestic relationship, please be aware of community resources:
- In an emergency, do not hesitate to call or text 9-1-1
- National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- Temporary Protection Order Office: 775-328-3127
- Crisis Support Services of Northern Nevada: 800-992-5757
- Domestic Violence Resource Center: 775-329-4150
- Safe Embrace – Family Violence Program & Shelter: 775-322-3466
- Sierra Community House, Incline Village: 800-736-1060
This remains an ongoing investigation. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Non-Emergency Dispatch at (775)785-WCSO (9276) or remain anonymous by contacting Secret Witness at (775) 322-4900 / www.secretwitness.com, reference case # WC25- 5131.
