Shots fired on member of tagging
crew next to busy Teague Park
October 03, 2014
By Peggy Kelly
Santa Paula News
A member of a tagging crew was the target of multiple gunshots fired near a busy park Wednesday afternoon but he was able to drive away from the scene without injury.
No one else was struck by the gunfire that erupted at 3:40 p.m. in the 200 block of South Steckel Drive, just south of West Harvard Boulevard and east of Teague Park.
Witnesses told Santa Paula Police a black Toyota Corolla pulled up next to the victim’s parked vehicle.
When two men exited the Corolla an argument began and then shots were fired at the unidentified youth’s vehicle, which was struck 8 to 10 times before he was able to drive off.
Police located the intended victim’s vehicle about a half-mile away at his family’s home on Sheppard Road.
The intended victim, whom police said is a member of a tagging crew involved in graffiti incidents, was uncooperative with police who suspect the shooting was gang related.
“Not only was the intended victim very lucky, it was also very fortunate that no persons gathered at the park,” involved in sports activities, “were struck by stray bullets,” said SPPD Commander Ish Cordero.
The suspects were subscribed as Hispanic males.
Anyone with information is urged to call the SPPD at 525-4474.
If the caller would prefer to remain anonymous, they can call the SPPD recorded Tip Hotline, 933-5691.
In addition, tips can be emailed to the SPPD at tipline@spcity.org
Or call Ventura County Crime Stoppers where the caller may remain anonymous and call is not recorded; 800-222-TIPS (8477).
Ventura County Crime Stoppers can also be contacted by texting “Busted” plus your message to CRIMES (274637).
Crime Stopper Tips can also be sent via the website, www.venturacountycrimestoppers.org