Gunfire breaks out at Monday Night Football gathering at Merced pizzeria, several hurt

Editors note: This story has been updated.

At least three people were hurt Monday evening after a fight broke out and gunshots were fired inside a Mountain Mike’s Pizza in Merced.

Details are preliminary and police have not released a motive.

Sgt. Chris Russell said the incident was reported just after 7:30 p.m. at the restaurant in the 1300 block of West Olive Ave. A large crowd had gathered at the restaurant to watch on television the Las Vegas Raiders play the Baltimore Ravens.

A fight erupted, during which gunshots were fired inside the building. At least three people were hurt in the fight, one of whom had possibly life-threatening injuries from a gunshot wound.

Police said citizens intervened during the situation and detained a possible suspect. All of the participants in the fight were males between the ages of 20 and 30, Russell said.

Russell said although the restaurant was crowded because of the Monday Night Football game, he does not think the shooting stemmed from the game itself — although the investigation is still pending.

The name of the possible suspect has not been released.

People in the area said they were shocked by the incident.

“It’s sad, real sad. It’s probably my favorite pizza place in town. It’s scary I have nieces and nephews and they like coming here..” said area resident Eddie Hernandez of Merced.

More details will be posted as they become available.

This story was originally published September 13, 2021 at 10:07 PM.