The SAPD is offering a reward for tips about the gang member who shot a toddler in a car

On February 25, 2024, at approximately 8 PM, a shooting occurred at the intersection of 15th Street and Spurgeon Street. The victims, two adults and two toddlers (3 and 4 years old), were driving in the area when their vehicle was struck by gunfire. Two bullet impacts struck the rear of the vehicle where the children were seated in car seats within the rear passenger area. One bullet traveled through the trunk, into the passenger compartment, striking the 3-year-old female, according to the SAPD.

The 3-year-old suffered a gunshot wound to the back and was immediately driven to Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC) by her mother where she underwent emergency surgery. The 3-year-old survived her injuries and is listed in critical but stable condition.

SAPD Homicide Detectives have assumed the investigation and believe the adult male passenger was the intended target, and the shooting is gang-related. Both adults were interviewed and cooperated with Detectives. Neither have been arrested.

Detectives are attempting to identify and locate any witnesses who can shed light on this incident. Based on the time of day and population density of the area, Detectives believe there are witnesses to this shooting. This was an act of senseless gun violence where an innocent child was shot and we are requesting the public’s assistance.

Anyone with information on the case is asked to call SAPD Homicide Section Detectives at (714) 245-8390 or Orange County Crime Stoppers at 1-855-TIP-OCCS.

This case is eligible for the Gang Reward Program.