tool name

Monday, Nov. 09, 2009

Five teens sought by police after boy's shooting

A 15-year-old boy is recovering after being shot late Friday near the intersection of West Childs Avenue and N Street, Merced police reported.

No suspects are in custody and police are seeking five male juvenile suspects around the ages of 16 or 17 years old, according to Lt. Bimley West.

Police responded to the scene around 10:30 p.m. The victim and another 15-year-old boy told police they were walking along the sidewalk when five unidentified suspects approached them and asked what gang they belonged to, West said.

The victims told the suspects they didn't belong to any gang. One of the suspects then pointed a shotgun at the boys. The boys ran away from the suspects. As they fled, the shooter fired several shotgun rounds at them.

One of the boys was struck by shotgun pellets in the head and torso. He was treated by paramedics and flown to a Modesto hospital.

The victim's wounds are not believed to be life-threatening, West said.

Officers tried to locate the suspects, but were unsuccessful.

Police are asking anyone with information about the shooting to contact Sgt. Scott Skinner at (209) 385-4702 or the department's automated tip-line at (209) 385-4725. Callers can remain anonymous.

Reporter Victor A. Patton can be reached at (209) 385-2431 or vpatton@mercedsun-star.com.