Modesto Murder Suspect May Be in Fremont Area

The Stanislaus County Sheriff's Department is searching for a man wanted in connection to an April 19 murder in Modesto. 

Authorities believe that 18-year-old Sergio Mercado may be in the Fremont and Hayward areas, according to the Modesto Bee.

Mercado is wanted on suspicion of murder for fatally shooting 23-year-old Omar Mendoza, a sureno gang member, on April 19 near Dallas and Lassen avenues in south Modesto.

According to the Modesto Bee, Mendoza was standing on a street corner and yelling after getting into an argument with a family member. A white SUV approached the corner and began arguing with Mendoza.

The incident became gang-related and shots were fired, the Modesto Bee reports.

Mendoza was left dead on the street and a 58-year-old female bystander was wounded.

Authorities believe Mercado is involved in the crime and may be in this area.

Mercado is described as an 18-year-old Hispanic male adult about 6-foot-2 and 140 pounds with black hair and brown eyes.

Anyone with information about Mercado’s whereabouts is asked to contact Stanislaus County Sheriff's Detective David Hickman at 209-525-7042 or the Stanislaus Area Crime Stoppers at 209-521-4636. Tips can also be left at www.stancrimetips.org.