Merced juvenile injured during carjacking, group of attackers remain at-large, police say

Merced police are investigating after a juvenile was injured after allegedly being carjacked by a group of people Wednesday evening.

No suspects have been arrested.

Officers responded to the 100 block of Snowhaven Court at 9:22 p.m. for a report of a fight with possible shots fired, according to Merced police Lt. Emily Foster.

Officers arrived and found the 17-year-old male victim in the street. “Upon further investigation, it was determined that he was involved in some type of altercation and his vehicle was stolen from him,” Foster said.

Police said it is unknown if any weapons were used in the assault and officers did not locate any evidence of shots fired.

Foster said that according to video surveillance, it appears the teen was pulling into an apartment complex in a red Dodge Charger when four or five subjects assaulted him.

The assault began inside the vehicle before moving to the exterior of the vehicle, according to police.

The attackers stole the vehicle and fled the scene driving east on Snowhaven Court.

Foster said police do not have a description of the suspects involved to release at this time.

Police said the victim suffered moderate injuries in the assault and was taken to a local hospital. Foster said the vehicle was eventually located about a mile from the scene at around 10:30 p.m..

Police processed the vehicle Wednesday night while searching for evidence. Detectives are looking for any witnesses and additional video surveillance.

A motive for the attack remains under investigation, according to Foster.

Anyone with information regarding the alleged crime is asked to contact Sgt. Haygood at 209-385-6998. Tips are kept confidential and you can remain anonymous.