Merced police increasing patrols as gang-related shootings spike
The Merced Police Department is ramping up its Gang Violence Suppression Unit in light of the recent spike in gang-related shootings.
The gang unit will operate daily, and additional patrol officers will work Merced streets, the Police Department said in a Facebook post Thursday.
“These efforts aim to disrupt violent activity, prevent retaliation, and strengthen police presence in neighborhoods most affected,” the post said.
Monday’s shooting deaths of two 14-year-old boys have not been ruled as a gang-related incident, Merced police said Wednesday. The investigation continues.
There were also shots fired at a vigil on Wednesday night; nobody was hit.
Monday’s deaths means that three teenagers have been killed in Merced shootings since mid-November. Davarion Granados, 16, was shot and killed by a known gang member on Lesher Street on Nov. 19.
“The Merced Police Department remains committed to using all available resources and partnerships to protect the community and enhance public safety,” the police Facebook post said.
