Share and Follow
On Tuesday, the FBI revealed a significant increase in the reward for information leading to the arrest of Omar Alexander Cardenas, a fugitive listed among the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted. The reward now stands at a substantial $1 million.
Cardenas, who also goes by the nickname “Dollar,” is accused of the fatal shooting of 46-year-old Jabari Dumas. The incident occurred during a shooting spree at a busy outdoor shopping center in Sylmar, California, on August 15, 2019.
Authorities have identified Cardenas as a former member of the Pierce Street Gang. He may also have ties with the Pacoima Van Nuys Boys and the Anybody Killas.
Cardenas is described as being between 5 feet 6 inches and 5 feet 7 inches tall, with a weight ranging from 240 to 300 pounds. He is known to wear thick prescription glasses and has at least one tattoo.
Originally, the FBI had set the reward for tips on his location at $100,000, highlighting the urgency and importance of his capture.
A mugshot of Omar Cardenas, one of the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives. (FBI)
Officials said on the day of the killing, Cardenas allegedly fired several rounds from a semi-automatic handgun at Dumas, who was standing outside the Hair Icon Barber Shop.
While executing a search warrant at Cardenas’ home, authorities recovered a vehicle believed to have been used in the crime, along with evidence linked to the killing.
A local arrest warrant was issued for Cardenas on April 3, 2020, in the Superior Court of Los Angeles County after he was charged locally with murder.
A federal arrest warrant from U.S. District Court in the Central District of California was issued for Cardenas on Sept. 2, 2021, after he was charged with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.
While officials did not release the reasoning behind such a large reward, Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Chief Jim McDonnell confirmed Cardenas has known gang affiliations.
A surveillance camera photo of Omar Cardenas in a black sweater and black jeans. (FBI)
Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office Akil Davis mentioned Cardenas may be hiding in Mexico, noting, “we will find you there.”
“Our relationship with Legat Mexico is very strong. They specialize in apprehensions like this,” Davis said. “Mexico is not safe for you, Mr. Cardenas, if that’s where you’re hiding. I have full faith in this task force that they will bring you to justice.”
A mugshot of Omar Cardenas, who is wanted by the FBI and California authorities. (FBI)
Davis said Cardenas should be considered armed and dangerous.
Anyone with information is asked to call the FBI’s tip line at 800-225-5324, or submit a tip online.