Two separate shooting incidents have rocked Long Beach, with one resulting in an arrest and the other leaving police hunting for a motive and a suspect. In the first incident, which occurred on the evening of March 17, a male driver reportedly fired off rounds into the air while driving down Wilton Street, as per a report from the Long Beach Police. Although the gunfire did not result in any injuries, officers who arrived at the scene confirmed that a shooting did indeed take place. Details regarding the suspect or the reasons behind the aerial shots remain unknown, with investigations continuing to piece together the event.
The second, more serious incident unfolded in the early hours of March 18, when Long Beach Police were alerted to a shooting after a verbal dispute escalated dangerously. Upon their arrival at 6700 block of East Walkerton Street, officers located a wounded man, who had sustained a gunshot injury to his lower body. As medical aid was administered and the victim was rushed to the hospital, law enforcement's swift action led to the arrest of 65-year-old Douglas Hammond in proximity to the crime scene. A gun was found and seized as evidence, and Hammond faces charges of assault with a deadly weapon in addition to carrying a firearm in public. According to the Long Beach Police's blotter, his bail is set at $30,000.
Long Beach locals and concerned citizens alike await further developments as police continue their investigations. Authorities are calling for any witnesses or those with information related to the no-hit shooting on Wilton Street to step forward. For those who wish to remain anonymous, tips can be submitted through LA Crime Stoppers.
