Man found dead in Quincy identified

QUINCY — The Quincy Police Department identified the person who was found dead in the city Thursday morning as 39-year-old Quincy resident Billy Joe Cruz, according to information released Friday.

Cruz’s body was found in the 700 block of Central Avenue South about 8:45 a.m. Thursday. Cruz’s death was ruled a homicide and the Quincy Police Department is of the belief that his death is possibly related to a shots fired call the night before.

About 10:40 p.m. Quincy officers responded to the 1200 block of Central Avenue South for a report of a shots being fired. The reporting party said the shots were fired south of town, not in city limits, and officers searched the area of state Route 281 and Road 9 Northwest, but did not find evidence.

"Even though the report of shots fired was five blocks south and, at that time, thought to be further south out of town, officers believe these two incidents are related," the QPD previously stated in a news release.

Police believe the shooting is isolated and identified a dark-colored pickup truck that is believed to be the suspect vehicle.

If you have any information contact 509-787-2222.

Richard Byrd can be reached via email at city@columbiabasinherald.com.