Teen Arrested in Santa Maria Shooting

By the Santa Maria Police Department

On 10/09/2022 at approximately 1823 hours, SMPD Officers responded to the area of Vine and Jewel regarding reports of a shooting that had occurred.

Upon arrival, officers located a vehicle at the scene which had been struck by gunfire.  The two female occupants of the vehicle, ages 17 & 18 respectively, had both been hit by bullets fired by two male assailants.  Both females suffered serious injuries and had to be transported for medical treatment for their wounds.  Additionally, the two male suspects fled the area on foot.

SMPD Detectives then took over the case and worked diligently to locate and identify and both suspects who were now wanted for attempted murder charges.

As the investigation continued, one male suspect was identified and determined to be a 15-year-old male, resident of Santa Maria, and is a documented gang member.

On Tuesday, 11/01/2022 at approximately 1045 hours, the juvenile was located and taken into custody without incident.   The juvenile was admitted into the SM Juvenile Hall facility on charges of attempted murder. Because of his age, the identity of the juvenile is not being released.

Detectives are still working to identify the second suspect who is believed to be an adult gang member.

Both female victims are now recovering from their injuries. The victims are not known to have any gang affiliations.

This investigation is ongoing, and the public is encouraged to contact the SMPD Detective Bureau at (805) 928-3781 xt 1362, with any information regarding this case.