Deadly Night at Sazon Latino: One Killed, One Injured in Hazleton Bar Shooting — Suspect in Custody

Hazleton, PA — May 25, 2025 — A night of music, food, and dancing ended in tragedy at a popular Hazleton bar and restaurant early Saturday morning, after a fatal shooting claimed the life of one man and left another seriously injured. The incident occurred at Sazon Latino, a well-frequented Latin American establishment located at the corner of 20th and Alter Street in Luzerne County.

Hazleton City Police responded to the scene at approximately 1:30 a.m., after multiple 911 calls reported gunfire inside the restaurant. Upon arrival, officers discovered two men suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. One of the victims was unresponsive, while the other remained conscious but severely wounded.

First responders quickly transported both men to Lehigh Valley Hospital–Hazleton. Tragically, the unresponsive victim was pronounced dead just before 2:30 a.m., Luzerne County Coroner Dion Fernandes confirmed in an official statement. The name of the deceased has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.

The second victim remains hospitalized. Authorities have not disclosed his identity or the extent of his injuries but noted that he is expected to survive.

A Targeted Altercation, Not a Random Act

Eyewitnesses inside the restaurant told investigators that the shooting appeared to result from a dispute that escalated between several individuals inside the establishment. One witness, who requested anonymity out of fear of retaliation, described the shooter as a tall Hispanic male with dreadlocks tied in a ponytail, wearing a leather shirt and sunglasses. Surveillance footage reviewed by law enforcement matched that description.

Police quickly launched a manhunt for the suspect, and within hours, 29-year-old Jose Sandoval Perez was apprehended. He was taken into custody without incident and is currently being held at the Luzerne County Correctional Facility.

Investigators believe the firearm used in the shooting was stolen from a nearby residence shortly before the incident occurred. Ballistics analysis and ongoing forensic testing are being conducted to confirm the weapon’s involvement. Authorities have not indicated whether Perez has any prior criminal history.

Suspect Faces Multiple Charges; Bail Denied

Jose Sandoval Perez faces a series of serious charges, including:

• Theft of a firearm
• Recklessly endangering another person
• Carrying a firearm without a license

He was arraigned Saturday afternoon, where District Judge Joseph Zola denied bail, citing the severity of the crime and public safety concerns. Perez is scheduled to appear in court for a preliminary hearing later this week.

Community Reaction

News of the shooting has shaken the tight-knit Hazleton community, particularly those familiar with Sazon Latino, which is considered a staple in the city’s vibrant Latin American scene. Residents expressed both shock and sadness over the sudden violence.

“This is not something you expect in our town, especially at a place where people go to enjoy themselves,” said Maria Jimenez, a longtime Hazleton resident who lives just a few blocks from the restaurant. “It’s heartbreaking to think someone didn’t make it home that night.”

The restaurant remained closed throughout the day Saturday as detectives processed the scene and interviewed staff and patrons. Management has not issued a public statement.

No Ongoing Threat, Say Police

Hazleton Police emphasized that this was an isolated incident involving individuals who knew one another and that there is no ongoing threat to the public.

“This was not a random act of violence,” said Police Chief Brian Schoonmaker during a brief press conference. “We have a suspect in custody, and we’re confident in the charges brought forward. The community can rest assured that the situation is under control.”

Authorities continue to ask for anyone with information, video footage, or eyewitness accounts of the incident to contact Hazleton City Police at (570) 459-4940.

As the investigation continues, the identity of the deceased is expected to be released in the coming days, and funeral arrangements are pending. Meanwhile, the community mourns another senseless act of violence that has left a lasting scar on a place known for celebration and culture.