Driver crashes after shots fired in north Merced

Gunshots were fired Saturday night on Yosemite Avenue near El Redondo Drive, causing one driver to crash his vehicle into a traffic pole, while another driver escaped with a minor grazing wound to his head.

Officers responded to the scene just before 9:30 p.m. for a call of a vehicle crashing into a pole at the northeast corner of Yosemite Avenue at El Redondo Drive. Police also received reports of shots fired, Sgt. Robert Solis said.

The 25-year-old man driving the Toyota that hit the pole was conscious when officers arrived. The driver reported he was traveling west on Yosemite Avenue in a Toyota 4Runner when he heard gunshots. The driver lost control and crashed into the base of the traffic pole.

Officers found bullet casings in the street, a short distance from the wreck. The Toyota’s driver did not appear to be struck by gunshots, Solis said, although he suffered injuries to his lower body from the crash. He was taken to a hospital.

Police learned a second driver was also injured. The driver, a 21-year-old man, was traveling west on Yosemite Avenue in a Ford F-150 when he heard the gunshots. Police said the driver was apparently grazed by a bullet and fled in his vehicle. The driver arrived home, and someone agreed to take him to a hospital. On the way, the second victim saw police at the crime scene, pulled over and spoke with officers.

Solis said it was still unknown whether the shooter was on foot or in a vehicle, and no suspect description was available.

Anyone with information can call Sgt. Scott Skinner at (209) 385-4702 or the department’s automated tipline at (209) 385-4725. Tips are kept confidential and you can remain anonymous.

This story was originally published February 14, 2015 at 11:09 PM with the headline "Driver crashes after shots fired in north Merced."