YCSO investigates shooting near Highway 95
Jalen Fong
UPDATE (7:08 PM): A quiet night in Somerton turned into a frightening ordeal for residents after shots rang out in a neighborhood on South Rincon de España late Thursday.
Around 9 p.m., deputies with the Yuma County Sheriff’s Office (YCSO) responded to reports of gunfire. Investigators say a 72-year-old man from Yuma opened fire on a home with people inside.
A resident in the home reportedly returned fire, leading to a tense exchange of bullets before the suspect fled the scene on foot.
“I just moved here. I’ve only been here two or three months and I thought it was gonna be good for my girls,” said Irene Arellano, who lives nearby.
“Of course I’m scared. I live here. I heard the gunshots and then about 30 units parked right there,” said local resident Alejandro Paz.
Authorities credit both witnesses and multiple cooperating law enforcement agencies with helping contain the situation quickly and without injury. YCSO says the suspect was eventually found hiding in an overgrown mesquite tree and taken into custody.
“The occupant of a nearby residence opened fire on the suspect, which caused the suspect to then flee on foot,” said Tania Pavlak with YCSO. “Thanks to the cooperation of the victims and of nearby witnesses, they were able to locate the suspect quickly.”
The man is now facing multiple felony charges. A cash bond has been set at $50,000, and his next court appearance is scheduled for Tuesday.
The incident has left residents shaken but grateful no one was hurt. As the investigation continues, deputies are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.
SOMERTON, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – Yuma County Sheriff’s Office (YCSO) and Border Patrol teamed up in a shooting that was reported in Somerton.
The incident happened around 10 p.m. Thursday night at Lorenza Street and Rincon de España near Highway 95.
Border Patrol agents and YCSO deputies are looking for evidence and for a possible suspect around the neighborhood.
One local said that he heard gunshots prompting law enforcement to respond very quickly.
We will follow up on the story and bring you the latest details coming up on our evening newscasts.