Teen dead in crash on Prescott after reports of shots fired

Modesto police are investigating the death of a 17-year-old boy who was involved in a “catastrophic” car crash after being shot early Friday.

The incident began with calls to 911 about 2:20 a.m. reporting shots fired in the area of Prescott and West Rumble Road. Shortly afterward, there were calls about cars racing or at high speed and a possible crash, Modesto police Officer Billy Boyle said at the scene.

Officers on patrol in the area were at the crash site within a few minutes, Boyle said, and found the boy dead at the scene.

During the autopsy, authorities said, it was determined the victim had a gunshot wound in addition to the injuries sustained from the crash. Police withheld his name pending notification of his family.

It appears the driver was headed south on Prescott approaching Mount Vernon when he veered right and into a tree in front of A Tech Automotive Repair, Boyle said. The force of the crash caused catastrophic damage to the vehicle and ejected the teen, who was the sole occupant, he said. The crash even tore free and ejected the car’s engine.

Evidence at the scene suggested the vehicle had been hit by gunfire. The vehicle was determined to have been stolen.

Police are looking for another vehicle that witnesses said was involved and fled the scene.

The Modesto Police Department Traffic Unit and Investigative Services Division Crimes Against Persons Unit are working together on the case.

Anyone with information regarding this case is asked to contact Modesto Police Department Detective Martin at (209) 652-9720 or Crime Stoppers at (209) 521-4636. Callers to Crime Stoppers can remain anonymous and are eligible for a cash reward. Tipsters may also text information to Crime Stoppers at 274637; type “TIP704” along with the message.

This story was originally published August 19, 2016 at 9:48 AM with the headline "Teen dead in crash on Prescott after reports of shots fired."