A teenage boy was fatally shot in the parking lot of a San Marcos business center late Wednesday night, officials said. The 17-year-old victim, whose identity has not yet been released, was hit in the upper torso during the gunfire that erupted around 11:30 p.m. on the 900 block of Los Vallecitos Boulevard, according to the San Diego County Sheriff's Department.
Deputies reported to Palomar Hospital after receiving a call that the injured teen had been admitted to the emergency room by two individuals who had driven him there following the shooting, which took place. At the same time, a group was gathered outside in the lot when suddenly an unknown vehicle stopped. Someone got out and started shooting at the group, and then the vehicle fled, leaving chaos and a young life hanging in the balance. The victim succumbed to his injuries a short time after arriving at the hospital.
The Sheriff's Homicide Unit has taken over the case, working to piece together the events that led up to the tragic incident, which as of now appears to be senseless; the motive behind the attack remains unclear, with no suspect information available. In a statement issued by Lieutenant Michael Krugh, the Media Contact for the Sheriff's Department, officials urge anyone with information to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation.
The department calls for community assistance, hoping that witnesses or those who know the crime will help bring the perpetrator to justice, emphasizing that tips can remain anonymous by contacting Crime Stoppers. People wanting to help but are scared for their safety can still provide information without revealing their identity, which may prove crucial in a case of escalating fears in residents. The Homicide Unit can be reached at (858) 285-6330 for information during business hours and at (858) 565-5200 after hours, while the Crime Stoppers line is available at (888) 580-8477.
