Shooting during Modesto fight leaves 1 man critical

A man is in critical condition after being shot in the head during an early morning fight in northwest Modesto on Thursday.

Police officers were sent to the 3000 block of Carver Road, near West Rumble Road, to investigate a report of a shooting about 1:30 a.m.

Officers found a 36-year-man in the parking lot of a strip of apartments, said Modesto police officer Ivan Valencia.

The victim, who lives in Modesto, was conscious and talking when police arrived, Valencia said. The man was taken to a local hospital by ambulance. He later was moved to a hospital outside the county.

Police are keeping the hospital's location confidential to protect the victim, Valencia said.

Witnesses told police that two men were fighting when the assailant drew a gun and shot the victim.

Police say they do not know what the men were arguing about.

Authorities described the shooter as a man in his late teens or early 20s, about 5 feet 9 inches tall with a slim build.

The shooting is under investigation, Valencia said.

Police ask anyone with information about this shooting to call the Modesto Police Department at 572-9500 or CrimeStoppers at 521-4636. Callers to CrimeStoppers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.

Bee staff writer Emilie Raguso can be reached at eraguso@modbee.com or 578-2235.