Palm Springs Police are investigating the motive behind a late-night shooting that recently left two people injured, according to police on Facebook. The suspect, a local man, is now in custody and made his first court appearance on Friday, August 4, Palm Desert Patch reported.
As the department shared on social media, reports of a shooting brought the Palm Springs Police Department to the 2600 block of E. Tahquitz Canyon Way on Tuesday, Aug. 1, at 10:25 p.m. The shooter, who was identified as 22 year-old Joel Benitez of Palm Springs, is accused of causing non-life-threatening gunshot wounds during the incident.
Although he’s now in custody, police addressed any fear the community might have by saying, “Officers are currently working to determine the motive. It is important to note, there is no immediate danger to the public’s safety.”
As reported by Palm Desert Patch, Benitez entered a plea of not guilty on Friday while appearing at the Larson Justice Center in Indio. Benitez is facing allegations of attempted murder and gun-related assault, further compounded by an enhancing claim of inflicting great bodily harm, the article said.
Authorities apprehended Benitez early Wednesday morning, Aug. 2, near North Indian Canyon Drive, Patch reported. Following his arrest, the article said, he was lodged at the John J. Benoit Detention Center in Indio with bail set at $1 million based on inmate records.
Palm Springs Police Department is urging anyone who may have information regarding this shooting incident to reach out directly to their Investigations Division at 760-323-8121. Alternatively, anonymous tips can be shared through Crime Stoppers via 760-347-7867.
According to the City of Coachella website, citizens can be the eyes and ears of the community and help solve crimes without fear of retaliation or getting involved. If a tip leads to an arrest, they also can receive a reward of up to $1,000, the website said.
Through social media, the Police Department promised to share updates on the investigation as officers develop new information, perhaps with the help of tips from the public.
