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MODESTO, CA - A Modesto man is in serious condition in a local hospital after being shot in front of an auto shop on Crowslanding Road. Several people witnessed the shooting and detectives have been following up on leads throughout the afternoon.
Shortly after 10:30 AM this morning, deputies were dispatched to the area of 696 Crowslanding Road to investigate a possible shooting. The area, which is just North of Highway 99, has several auto repair businesses in multiple buildings on the site. Arriving deputies were directed to a shop where they located the shooting victim who is a Hispanic male adult believed to be 24 or 25 years old.
Initial reports from witnesses were sketchy and several roads were shut down in an attempt to locate possible suspects. Deputies were unable to locate any suspects and the victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Detectives were called out and began to process the crime scene and get detailed statements from eyewitnesses.
“Modesto Police and CHP responded to assist and we were able to get a lot of cops on scene and into the area really quickly,” said Sheriff’s Detective Lieutenant Mick Hardenbrook. “Unfortunately, information from the witnesses came slowly and the suspects were able to flee the scene prior to our arrival.”
After interviewing several of the witnesses, detectives believe that there may have been at least 3 men involved. Two of the men were described as Hispanic male adults in their 20’s and the third was described as a Hispanic male in his late 40’s. According to some witnesses, the three men left the area in a navy blue early 2000 model Volkswagen Jetta. The Jetta was very similar in style to a 2004 model and appeared to be in stock condition.
“It is a little to early to determine whether or not this shooting is gang related,” said Detective Frank Soria. “Preliminary indications are that it may not be, but we haven’t ruled that out as a motive yet.”
Detectives believe that there may have been other witnesses that left prior to deputies arriving on scene. “I would like to talk to anyone who may have seen the shooting or anyone who may have information regarding this incident,” said Soria. According to Soria, the witnesses can remain anonymous and they are encouraged to call Crime Stoppers with any information that they have.
Anyone with information about this case is encouraged to contact Detective Frank Soria at (209) 525-7080. Callers can also leave an anonymous tip by calling Crime Stoppers at (209) 521-4636. Tipsters can also e-mail tips at http://www.modestopolice.com/CrimeStoppers, or text them to CRIMES (274637) by typing "Tip704" plus the messageand be eligible for a cash reward.
For information regarding this press release please contact Deputy Tom Letras (209) 652-0134.
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