Atwater police investigate late-night gunbattle

Two men opened fire on another man and his two sons late Tuesday in Atwater – and the victims immediately returned fire, police said.

The gunfight ended without injuries and detectives were searching for two unidentified suspects.

The incident began at 11:43 p.m. at the Camelia Mobile Home Park, 2355 Atwater Blvd. Words were exchanged between two groups of men and two of the men opened fire. The man and his two sons were all armed and returned fire, Lt. Samuel Joseph said.

“Fortunately, it doesn’t appear anyone was hurt. We’ve received no reports of any injuries,” Joseph said.

Police did not release the names of the man and two sons, citing possible safety concerns.

“We believe they were defending themselves. The guns they had – two handguns and a rifle – were legal; they had all the paperwork,” Joseph said.

It remained unclear Wednesday exactly what may have sparked the violence. A possible gang motive has not been ruled out, however, police said, the man and his sons have no gang ties.

Police have not released any suspect descriptions.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Atwater police detectives at 209-357-6394. Tips are confidential and callers may remain anonymous.

This story was originally published March 23, 2016 at 5:04 PM with the headline "Atwater police investigate late-night gunbattle."