1 person dead after a sideshow shooting in Stockton
STOCKTON -- One person is dead after a shooting that happened during a sideshow in Stockton, said Stockton Police Department.
The incident happened late Sunday night just before midnight in the area of North California Street and Oak Street. Investigators say it is not clear whether the 22-year-old victim was a driver or spectator but report it was related to the illegal gathering near north California and Oak streets.
Upon arrival, police officers found the victim with multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to an area hospital where he was then pronounced dead.
"We heard the gunshots," said Collyne Hurtado. "We just knew that was it. We heard a couple — I think somebody shot back at them."
On Monday, the neighbors were saddened to learn the victim died.
"We got to find another avenue for people to let loose and have a good time," John Dittman said.
Stockton police say there has not only been an uptick of sideshows, but the trend is spreading.
"I would say there's been at least a dozen this year and they spread throughout the city and throughout the county," said Ofc. Andres Morado, a Stockton police spokesperson. "So they go from city to city."
What is being done to crack down on these illegal gatherings? The police department said it's working with area law enforcement in a countywide task force. Cameras sit in specific intersections and helicopters are deployed when needed to vet tips.
The force believes its work is paying off after recently seizing cars that were stunting in sideshows.
There are some reasons why these cases are hard to investigate. On the outside, the sideshows are seen as dangerous and often go hand-in-hand with illegal activities. To those on the inside, it is the new car culture while providing entertainment to spectators.
"It's a way to kill time," said Taymis Batchan, a resident who watched Sunday's sideshow. "It's better than them doing something bad."
This allure partly makes people reluctant to come forward with information which is something Stockton investigators are asking people to do.
"When people lose a life — families are affected. Children are affected," Dittman said.
There is currently no motive or suspect information, and homicide detectives are asking anyone with information to contact CrimeStoppers.
