The Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department is investigating a suspicious death found in an illegal marijuana grow just outside of the Ceres city limits.

The body was discovered on Tuesday, Sept. 24 in the 1200 block of Eugene Avenue just west of Herndon Road.

The dead man was identified as Fernando Sotelo, 53, of Modesto. Investigators were tight-lipped about the investigation – and the cause of death – only saying Sotelo’s death appeared suspicious.

Anyone with more information relevant to the case is asked to contact Detective Adam Rodriguez at 525-7093; or Stanislaus Area Crime Stoppers at 521-4636. Callers to Crime Stoppers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward. Tips may also be submitted via www.stancrimetips.org.