Shots reported near Charles Wright School

Gunfire erupted around 3:45 p.m. Wednesday on East 20th Street, across the street from Charles Wright Elementary School, Merced police reported.

No one was hurt during the incident.

An officer heard gunshots and a neighbor directed police to a home in the 900 block of East 20th Street, according to Lt. Andre Matthews, police spokesperson. As police arrived at the scene, 24-year-old Daniel Torres exited the home. He denied knowing anything about the shots but was detained at the scene, Matthews said.

Meanwhile, a second man, 36-year-old Jason Musquiz, fled on foot through the back of the home into neighboring backyards.

Police surrounded the area and Musquiz was detained as well. It's still unknown whether either man is the alleged shooter. At least one of the men is believed to be a resident of the home, Matthews said.

The department's SWAT team was called to the scene as investigators blocked off the roadway near Glen Avenue and East 20th Street, searching the area for clues and evidence. A shotgun was found on the premises of the home, Matthews said.

When the shooting was reported, about 100 students and 20 staff were attending an after-school event at the middle school. The school was locked down and students and staff were evacuated, according to Jose Munoz, the school's principal.

Parents with children at the school were notified about the incident by the district's phone system. The men were being held Wednesday night on suspicion of felony discharge of a firearm.

Police are asking anyone with information about the incident to call 385-6912 or the department's automated tip line at 385-4725. Callers can remain anonymous.

Reporter Victor A. Patton can be reached at (209) 385-2413 or vpatton@mercedsun-star.com.

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