Palm Springs Police arrested two juvenile males on Thursday evening for alleged involvement in a shooting in a busy area. No one was hurt during the shooting, the Palm Springs Police Department (PSPD) said.
"The Palm Springs Police Department would like to commend our patrol and communications division's swift response," PSPD said in a news release. "We are grateful that no injuries were reported, and we remain committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our community."
The two juvenile males were arrested on Thursday, June 29, for alleged involvement in a shooting near the intersection of East Tahquitz Canyon Way and South Belardo Road. The area of the shooting was near Village Fest in downtown Palm Springs. Officers on duty at the event were the first to respond.
"At the incident scene, officers spoke with three individuals who were parking in the area when it occurred," PSPD said in a news release. "They confirmed that no one had been injured due to the gunshot. Although officers could not identify an intended victim, it was discovered that an unoccupied vehicle in the parking lot had incurred damage from the gunfire."
Authorities received reports of gunfire and screaming just before 10:30 p.m., PSPD said. Upon arrival, responding officers observed two juvenile males fleeing from the area, and broadcast the description of the two suspects to officers in the surrounding area. More officers responded to assist, and eventually, the suspects were traced to the area of Amado Road and Indian Canyon Drive. Authorities set up a perimeter around the area, apprehending one suspect in a nearby parking lot and the other at the intersection of North Canyon Drive and East Andreas Road.
Based on information obtained during the search, officers suspected a third juvenile had possibly been involved. This third suspect, whom officers thought had the firearm, was exhibiting suspicious behavior, holding his waistband as he headed southbound. All three suspects were transported to the police station for processing. However, officers learned that the third individual was unrelated to the incident and was released into the custody of a guardian.
The two remaining suspects were transferred to Juvenile Hall. They face various charges, including obstructing an officer, discharging a weapon at an unoccupied vehicle and other weapons offenses. PSPD said investigators are working to determine a motive in this case. Further investigation revealed that the registered owner of the vehicle struck by gunfire had no apparent connection to the incident.
Anyone with information regarding the shooting is encouraged to contact the PSPD Investigations Division at 760-323-8121. Alternatively, anonymous information can be provided through Crime Stoppers at 760-347-7867.