2 Arrested For Alleged Discharge of Illegal Gun, Drug Possession

SANTA CRUZ, CA — Two men are in custody after officers responded to a call of shots heard in Santa Cruz on Sunday night, according to police. At 10:06 p.m., police arrived at the 100 block of Myrtle Street and confirmed a firearm was discharged in the area, officers said. They did not discover anyone being struck by the gunfire.

Responding officers were canvassing the area for witnesses when video surveillance that captured the shooting was provided to them. From there, officers were able to obtain a description of the suspect vehicle,
police said. Officers quickly located the vehicle that matched the license plate provided to dispatchers and conducted a vehicle stop in the 2200 block of Mission Street, according to police.

During a search of the suspect vehicle, officers located two loaded firearms, an illegal high-capacity magazine and crack cocaine. Three occupants of the vehicle were detained and taken to the Police Department for questioning. One occupant was released, but 24-year-old Frank Kuit and 25-year-old Hunter Everly were booked, police said.

Police said Kuit was arrested on suspicion of willful discharge of a firearm in a negligent manner, possession of a loaded firearm, possession of an unregistered firearm and possession of an illegal high-capacity magazine. The second suspect, Everly, was arrested on suspicion of possession and transportation of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance while armed with a firearm, commission of a felony while out on bail and an outstanding warrant, according to police.

The case is under investigation. Anyone with information should call the Santa Cruz Police Department Investigations Section at (831) 420-5820. Anonymous tips can be sent to police through their tip line at
(831) 420-5995, on their website at www.santacruzpolice.com or via smartphone app or SMS text. The website has more information on the last option.

By Bay City News

Photo courtesy Renee Schiavone/ Patch