Man sought in Janessa Ramirez murder investigation

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Fresno police have obtained an arrest warrant for a 21-year-old man, who is wanted in connection with the murder investigation of 9-year-old Janessa Ramirez.

Officers are looking for Donte Hawkins. They say he is a gang member and could be somewhere in Northern California.

Two suspects were arrested in this case. Brian Cooks, 22, pleaded not guilty to murder charges. Isaac Stafford, 19, was also arrested, but no charges have been filed against him. He has since been released from jail.

Janessa was standing in front of a West Central Fresno laundromat with her mother when she was shot in the stomach. She later died.

Investigators believe Cooks is the person who fired the bullet that killed the 9-year-old, and that Hawkins was in a Dodge Challenger with Stafford during the shootout.

Anyone with information on Hawkins' whereabouts is asked to contact Fresno police at (559) 621-2445.