Saturday, Sep. 29, 2012

Teen critical after being shot in torso

A teen is in critical condition after being shot Wednesday, police said.

The Los Banos Police Department responded to a report of shots fired in the 100 Block of Santa Rita Street at 9:44 p.m.

Upon arrival, officers discovered a 17-year-old male suffering from multiple gunshot wounds to the upper torso.

The victim was airlifted to a Modesto area hospital. He is in critical condition.

Witnesses reported seeing a dark-colored truck leaving the area north on Santa Rita Street shortly after the shooting, police said.

Police have not stated whether they believe the incident is gang-related.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Detective Jake Bento at (209) 827-7070, ext. 115, or leave an anonymous crime tip by calling (209) 827-7070, ext. 288. Anonymous tips also can be left at the Police Department's webpage at www.losbanos.org. At the bottom of the "Contact" page simply click on the "report graffiti and other crime" link.