Police have made a significant breakthrough in the case of the 2018 murder of Ramon Diaz, a highly regarded jiu-jitsu instructor from Cathedral City. Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the tragic shooting that took place on March 28, 2018, on the 31000 block of Whispering Palms Trail.
Diaz was a well-known figure in the local martial arts community and owned Palm Springs Jiu-Jitsu, where he also served as an instructor. He was instrumental in inspiring and shaping the journeys of many martial arts enthusiasts, including UFC fighter Cub Swanson, who credits Diaz for his start in MMA.
The news of Diaz’s murder sent ripples through the community, prompting an outpouring of tributes and heartfelt messages from those whose lives he had touched.
Described as a pillar in the jiu-jitsu community, Diaz’s passion for the sport and dedication to his students left a lasting impact. One of his close friends, Karianne Carrillo, shared how Diaz’s martial arts school became a transformative space for many lost souls, offering them a sense of purpose and belonging.
The tragic incident left Diaz’s friends and students searching for answers for over five years, with the community putting up billboards and offering rewards for any information leading to an arrest.
Finally, in June 2023, detectives received a lead on new information, which eventually led to the identification of the suspects and the vehicle involved in the homicide. Police arrested Kipko Griffin, 48, following a search warrant at his residence in Cathedral City. An additional suspect, Troy Walter Edmund, 44, was already in custody on unrelated charges and will now be charged with murder.
Despite the arrests, the community still seeks closure and justice for Diaz’s untimely death. Carrillo expressed the need for more information about the motive behind the crime, as Diaz’s kindness and positive influence on so many people make it difficult to comprehend why someone would take his life.
The Brazilian jiu-jitsu community and those who knew Diaz remember him not only as a respected martial artist but also as a compassionate man dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others. His legacy lives on in the hearts of his students and the martial arts community.
The suspects are yet to be officially charged by the District Attorney’s office, but they are expected to be arraigned soon. Authorities encourage anyone with information related to the incident to come forward and assist in bringing justice to Diaz and his grieving community.
