Crime & Safety

Watsonville Man Shot In Capitola By 3 Watsonville Suspects: Police

A Watsonville man was shot and hit by gunfire in Capitola last Thursday evening according to police.

CAPITOLA - Three suspects have been arrested after a Watsonville man was shot and hit by gunfire in Capitola last Thursday evening, according to police.

Capitola police say shortly after 5 p.m. on June 16, the 25-year-old victim was in a car at the intersection of Opal Cliff Drive and Portola Drive when an SUV pulled up next to the vehicle.

According to police, shots were fired from the SUV into the other vehicle, striking the victim, who was in the front passenger seat. Police say both cars fled after the shooting.

Find out what's happening in Capitola-Soquelfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

With the help of the Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office and the California Highway Patrol, Capitola police arrested three Watsonville residents.

Arrested on charges of attempted murder were two adult males - Anthony Hernandez and Patrick Diaz - and a juvenile male, who was not named.

Find out what's happening in Capitola-Soquelfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Capitola police say the victim is in stable condition and receiving treatment for his injuries.

Police continue to investigate whether the shooting may have been gang-related, and are asking for anyone who may be able to help in the continuing investigation to call them at (831) 475-4242.

Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

More from Capitola-Soquel