Following a meticulous investigation, the Oxnard Police Department announced the arrest of three individuals connected to an April gang-related shooting; in a news release dated August 7th, the department identified the suspects as Gavino Hernandez, 19, Christopher Verduzco, 18, and a 16-year-old male, arresting them for their alleged roles in the non-fatal shooting of a 25-year-old man.
On the evening of April 11th, officers were dispatched to the 500 block of Cuesta Del Mar Drive responding to reports of gunfire, they found the injured victim who was promptly treated and taken to a local hospital; the subsequent probe by the Violent Crimes Unit (VCU) led them to determine the incident stemmed from gang activity and identified the trio as suspects. Multiple search warrants were served in late July and early August, which involved the SWAT Team, Canine Unit, and the Investigative Services Bureau, culminating in the arrests taking place in Oxnard and La Mirada Hernandez faces three counts of attempted murder among other charges while Verduzco and the juvenile are each charged with assault with great bodily injury and conspiracy.
The charges also include a gang enhancement under the Street Terrorism Enforcement and Prevention Act due to all three suspects being confirmed as affiliated with a criminal gang; each faces serious legal ramifications if found guilty. Concerned citizens with information related to the case are encouraged to reach out to Detective Diego Estrada at 805-385-8291 or Detective Jose Rodriguez at 805-247-8972. The Oxnard Police Department website also offers means to report suspect activity, and Ventura County Crime Stoppers provides a venue for anonymous tips via phone or online submissions.
