On September 27, 2025, at 05:58 AM, members of the City of Reading Police Department responded to the 800 block of Nicolls Street for a report of numerous shots fired in the area. When officers arrived on scene, they located two unresponsive males lying in the entrance of an open garage, both suffering from gunshot wounds.
Lifesaving efforts were attempted by both officers and members of the Reading Fire/EMS Department. Unfortunately, both males succumbed to their injuries. The victims were later identified as Victor Urena-Yami, 25, and Victor Jimenez, 21.
Shortly after the initial call, at 06:36 AM, officers were notified of another male shooting victim who had been dropped off at Reading Hospital for treatment.
Investigators interviewed this male, who police identified as 31-year-old Raul Perez-Diaz. Perez-Diaz stated he had fired a handgun in self-defense after an altercation occurred with other males in the 800 block of Nicolls Street.
As the investigation progressed, investigators located video evidence showing other individuals in the area who may have witnessed the shooting. These individuals were located and provided statements that contradicted Perez-Diaz’s account.
Investigators also discovered and seized a firearm that, through ballistic analysis and testing, was confirmed to be the weapon used in the shooting.
Investigators began searching for Perez-Diaz to question him further. He learned that investigators were looking for him and eventually contacted police to say he would report to City Hall but ultimately failed to do so. As a result of this investigation, an arrest warrant was issued for Raul Perez-Diaz for 2 counts of first-degree murder, 2 counts of third-degree murder, and related charges.
As in every criminal case, the issuance of a warrant or complaint is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Anyone with information related to this homicide investigation or the location of Raul Perez-Diaz is asked to contact the Reading Police Department at 610-655-6116. Information can also be provided anonymously by calling Crime Alert Berks County at 1-877-373-9913. Crime Alert offers cash rewards for information leading to an arrest.
