Friday, Mar. 08, 2013

Gunfire leaves 1 dead, 3 hurt

A man is dead in what police call a gang-related shooting, marking Los Banos' first homicide of the year. The Merced County Coroner's Office identified the victim as Shane Thomas Moore, 18, of Gustine.

Los Banos police received a report of shots fired in the 800 block of La Mesa Lane at 9:09 p.m. Monday. Police found four males in the garage with gunshot wounds. Moore was pronounced dead at the scene. The other three, all 20 years old, were shot in the legs, police said. One also was struck in the arm.

Police said the three males were airlifted to Modesto-area hospitals and are listed in stable condition.

Witnesses reported seeing a male in dark-colored clothing running from the area after the shooting, police said. However, according to police, not everyone has been forthcoming.

"Some of the witnesses have been uncooperative as we investigate this case. This was a senseless tragedy that has affected our community. We are asking anyone with information about this crime to do the right thing and come forward," Cmdr. Ray Reyna Jr. said.

Reyna said the incident is gang related. Police said they have not identified a suspect.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call Detective Eduardo Solis at (209) 827-7070, ext. 137.