Gang violence suspected in weekend shooting

Madera Police Department officers responded to reports of a shooting in the 300 block of Magnolia Street. 

Upon arrival Friday at about 7 p.m., officers found a 17-year-old male victim lying in the roadway suffering from gunshot wounds sustained during a verbal altercation. 

Officers immediately rendered life-saving aid, and coordinated with emergency medical personnel who arrived on scene shortly thereafter. 

The victim was transported to a local hospital, where he received treatment for his injuries, and is in stable condition. 

Detectives with the Investigations Unit and Special Investigations Unit responded to the scene, and worked tirelessly throughout the night to identify a 17-year-old male suspect believed to be responsible for the shooting. 

The suspect was taken into custody without incident and booked into Madera County Juvenile Hall. Preliminary investigation indicates the shooting appears to be gang related. 

The Madera Police Department would like to commend the dedication and swift efforts of our investigators, whose work led to the quick identification and arrest of the suspect, bringing a measure of closure to the families involved. 

Gang violence continues to have a devastating impact on our community. The Madera Police Department remains committed to aggressively investigating and pursuing those responsible for gang related criminal activity. Gang violence will not be tolerated in our city and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. 

Parents and family members who suspect their child may be involved in gangs are encouraged to seek assistance. Several community resources are available to help families, including Madera Unified’s OPTIONS Program and the Loving Solutions Parent Project. 

Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Madera Police Department at (559) 675-4220. Anonymous tips may also be submitted through Crime Stoppers at (559) 498-STOP.