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Cordova Parks Superintendent Found Shot To Death

RANCHO CORDOVA (CBS13) – An employee of the Cordova Recreation and Park District was found dead inside his bullet-riddled SUV early Monday morning apparently on his way to work.

The victim was Parks Superintendent Steve Ebert, according to Doug Critchfield, CRPD interim district administrator.

"Steve was a compassionate father and a grandfather," Critchfield said. "He absouletely did not deserve this to happen to him."

A park employee was headed to work at around 6 a.m. Monday when he drove past the SUV with its engine running and lights on near Hagan Community Park at Chase Drive in Rancho Cordova.

The employee found Ebert slumped back in his seat. Ebert's foot was on the brake and the vehicle was still in gear. The employee also noticed there were multiple bullet holes in the driver's side of the vehicle.

"We're all shocked and this a great tragedy for the Rancho Cordova community as well as Sacramento county and the region," Critchfield said.

Sheriff's Deputy Jason Ramos said Ebert had been shot numerous times in his head and upper body.

No suspects have been arrested.

The district recently laid off 18 employees, and Critchfield was asked if anyone had threatened Ebers.

"Again I don't want to comment about things that may have been said," he said. "That's part of the ongoing investigation."

While Critchfield would not comment any further on the possibility of a retaliation killing, he did say that for security purposes the district offices were closed Monday and will be again Tuesday. After that the administration building will be guarded, he said.

"I can't imagine the reasons behind someone doing something like this to him," Critchfield said. "He's one of the kindest inidividuals I knew."

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