Murder suspect arrested

Chico police detectives have arrested a suspect in the murder of AB Skhy Abrahamian, a Chico man who was shot and killed a few days into the new year at East Eighth and Flume streets.

Travis Michael Ortiz, 25, was picked up by the Chico Police Department’s Street Crimes Unit in Grass Valley. The officers had a warrant and found him in possession of two weapons: a handgun in his vehicle and a rifle in his apartment.

It’s unclear whether either of the guns was used in the slaying. Police say Abrahamian and Ortiz knew each other, but they are still working on determining a motive for the murder. Ortiz in being held in Butte County Jail on $1 million bail.

Meanwhile, the Police Department is seeking members for a Police Community Advisory Board. Re-establishing the board is a top priority for Chief Mike Maloney in his effort to connect the department with the community. Applications are being sought through 5 p.m. on Jan. 29. For info, visit www.chico.ca.us/police/home_page.asp