Police Release Sketch of Man Suspected in Santa Cruz Drive-by Shooting

A 19-year-old man who was shot in a drive-by shooting Monday in Santa Cruz is in stable condition, according to police. At 8:59 p.m. Monday, officers responded to a report of a shooting at Raymond Street and Leibrandt Avenue. Upon arrival, officers found the victim, who suffered a gunshot wound to his upper left leg.

The victim, as well as witnesses, said he was approached by a light-colored 4-door vehicle with tinted windows. The occupants fired several rounds from inside the vehicle, hitting the victim, a concrete wall and an unoccupied parked vehicle. Investigators said the shooting appears to be gang-related. The suspect vehicle was last seen heading south the wrong way on Raymond Street toward Beach Street.

The suspects were described as two or three males. A sketch was released today of one suspect, who is described as a Hispanic man between 30 and 35 years old with a light complexion and who was wearing a dark-colored beanie.

The victim was flown to a Bay Area trauma center where he is currently recovering from his injuries, police said. Anyone with information about the case is encouraged to contact Detective Brian Warren at (831) 420-5837. Tips can also be given by phone at (831) 420-5995 or online at www.santacruzpolice.com.

By Bay City News

Sketch courtesy Santa Cruz Police Department