Atwater police arrest suspect in connection with shooting during illegal firearm deal

A suspect has been arrested in connection with an August shooting in Atwater, according to authorities.

The suspect, identified as 18-year-old Brandon Villifan was arrested after a search warrant was executed Monday afternoon, in the 100 block of Arrowwood Lane, according to an Atwater Police Department news release.

Police said the shooting occurred on Aug. 9 near Joan Faul Park during an unlawful firearms sale that was negotiated over the internet. Authorities said the sale was negotiated between a 17-year-old Atwater resident and the suspect and a shooting took place east the exchange point.

According to Atwater Police Chief Michael Salvador, the 17-year-old suffer a minor injury in the shooting and was not transported to a hospital.

“This was very much an illegal firearms transaction that was negotiated and went bad,” said Salvador. According to Salvador, it is illegal to purchase firearms and ammunition online in California.

“This type of transaction has to go through a licensed firearms dealer in the state,” Salvador said.

According to Merced County Sheriff’s Deputy Alexandra Britton, Villafan was booked on suspicion of assault with a firearm and robbery. He was released on bail Wednesday, Britton said.

According to Salvador, the investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact the Atwater Police Department at 209-357-6384.