Madera man wounded in shooting; suspect on the run

A 25-year-old Madera man was in critical condition Monday, two days after he was shot during an argument, the Madera County Sheriff’s Office reported.

The victim, whose name was not released, was said to be in “critical and unstable condition at a Fresno hospital,” according to Cmdr. Bill Ward. The suspect, whose name has not been released, was still at large Monday.

Investigators said the victim and two other people were in a vehicle just before midnight Saturday. “They were arguing about their plans for the evening,” Ward told the Sun-Star.

A struggle broke out, and a shot fired from a handgun struck the victim. The suspect then began struggling with the driver of the vehicle, causing the car to crash into a tree near Avenue 12 and Road 28 1/4 , authorities said.

The shooting victim got out of the vehicle and collapsed, deputies said.

Investigators said the suspect then ran away. The driver remained with the victim.

“He (the driver) is a witness, not a suspect,” Ward said.

Deputies declined to comment on where the victim was shot or the exact type of firearm used.

Detectives also did not want to release any information regarding the suspect, including a description, citing a need to protect their search and investigation.

Ward said investigators do not suspect any gang or drug connections.

This story was originally published May 16, 2016 at 11:39 AM with the headline "Madera man wounded in shooting; suspect on the run."