Eliazar Hernandez, 10-20-09

Name: Eliazar Hernandez, 16, of Modesto

Synopsis: Stanislaus County coroner officials said Eliazar Hernandez, 16, of Modesto, was fatally wounded after he was shot in the unincorporated neighborhood east of South Ninth Street and south of the Tuolumne River. He was hit by stray gunfire during an apparent gang fight, although neighbors said he wasn't involved in the fight or associated with gangs.

Motivation: Detectives are still trying to determine whether Hernandez, and another man who was found shot nearby and suffered nonlife-threatening injuries, were involved in the gang fight. However, they say it's likely Hernandez wasn't.

Suspects: Detectives arrested a teenage boy on suspicion of murder and assault with a deadly weapon.

Sheriff's officials ask anyone with information about the shooting to call Crime Stoppers at 521-4636. Tipsters also can e-mail tips through the Crime Stoppers Web site, www.modestopolice.com/CrimeStoppers, or text tips to CRIMES (274637) by typing "Tip704" plus a message. Callers to Crime Stoppers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.

If you would like to submit photos of this victim or have other information to share, please email homicides@modbee.com.