Toddler shot in Modesto still in critical condition

MODESTO -- A Modesto toddler was listed in critical but stable condition Sunday evening after being shot.

The circumstances of the shooting are unclear.

The 1½-year-old was brought by private car to an emergency room shortly after noon Sunday. The injury was reported to police. The girl was airlifted about 1 p.m. to Children's Hospital and Research Center in Oakland, where she underwent emergency surgery for a single gunshot wound, said Modesto police Sgt. Brian Findlen.

Police initially were told it was a drive-by shooting in the family's front yard in south Modesto. But neighbors reported hearing no shots, and Findlen said police have no evidence to suggest that is what occurred.

Findlen said the toddler's home on Stone Leaf Court was being processed for evidence, and a man at the home was interviewed. There have been no arrests.

Findlen said investigators are piecing together what happened, where it happened and what weapon was used.

"We can't rule out if it was accidental or intentional — we sure hope nobody would intentionally shoot a 1½-year-old, but we don't know," Findlen said.

Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers at (209) 521-4636. Tipsters can e-mail tips at www.modestopolice.com/ CrimeStoppers, or text them to CRIMES (274637) by typing "Tip704" plus the message. Callers are eligible for a reward.