Atwater man says men beat him after he answered knock at door

Atwater police are investigating an alleged home invasion reported about 12:46 a.m. Friday on Acacia Court.

The victim, a 29-year-old man, said that he'd been asleep until he heard knocks on his door. He answered, thinking it was his girlfriend, but two Latino men in their 20s entered, according to Lt. Sam Joseph.

The victim said he didn't get a good look at the men, who were armed with handguns. The victim was pistol-whipped, and the men ordered him to the ground. The men then told the man in Spanish that he needed to leave the area or he'd be killed, Joseph said.

The assault left the man with injuries to his head, but he refused medical treatment. The victim also told police one of the men fired a shot with a small-caliber handgun. Police didn't find any expended rounds or bullet holes at the residence, Joseph said.

Police don't have a motive, and the victim denied having any gang ties.

The victim was assisted temporarily with housing by the department's chaplain program, Joseph said.

Police are asking anyone with information about the case to call (209) 357-6387. Tips are kept confidential and callers can remain anonymous.

-- Sun-Star staff