Police Identify Gunman Who Paralyzed Local Man

TRACY (CBS13) – The victim of a 2010 shooting is hoping for justice now that police have released the identity of the suspected gunman that left him paralyzed.

The 22-year-old victim, who asked only to be identified as Eric, said he was approached by seven men while making one of his frequent trips to a convenience store near his home, and when he tried to walk home, they followed him.

Investigators said the suspects pulled Eric into their SUV and aimed a gun at him. Eric said he tried to escape, causing the bullet to miss his head and hit his chest instead.

The suspects threw him from the vehicle, leaving him bleeding and paralyzed. Two years later, Eric said it's still difficult to adjust.

"It's hard… going to the bathroom, taking a shower, getting dressed. I need a lot of help," he said.

The suspected shooter has walked free, but Tracy police have finally released the identity of the gunman: Martin Duran Vargas, who police believe is on the run.

Eric said he hopes someone turns in Vargas and allows him to face justice.

"I really want to be in court, if they let me," he said.

Eric said two of the other six men with Vargas that night have been caught and arrested. Tracy police did not immediately return CBS13's calls requesting their identities Friday night.